ASEAN Integration: ASEAN marked its 59th anniversary with Timor-Leste welcomed as the newest member, as the bloc’s Secretary-General urged stronger unity and cross-border cooperation amid geopolitical and economic shocks. Digital Economy & Connectivity: Australia-backed work has now connected all Pacific Islands Forum members—including Timor-Leste—to global undersea cable networks, aiming to boost resilience and open new trade and digital market opportunities. State Cybersecurity: Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister has set up an Interministerial Committee on Cybersecurity and the Digitalisation of State Services to coordinate policy across justice, interior, transport/communications, intelligence and telecom regulators. Energy & Investment: Government officials met Woodside to discuss the Greater Sunrise project and how it can support Timor-Leste’s long-term economic development. Labour Mobility: The Council of Ministers reviewed PALM, including Timorese participation targets rising to 10,000 by 2028, while noting ongoing challenges in protecting workers’ rights and well-being. Oil & Gas Projects: Finder Energy says Timor-Leste’s Petrojarl I FPSO upgrade and relocation for the KTJ project is expected to enter a shipyard in early 2027. Tourism & Culture: A travel feature frames Timor-Leste as a new tourism frontier as development accelerates following ASEAN accession, with more hotels, sealed roads and an airport upgrade. Trade & Events: Timor-Leste is set to debut at Hong Kong’s major food and wellness fairs, signaling growing regional business exposure.