ASEAN Summit Prep: Timor-Leste has started work on an International Convention Centre in Dili, a key step toward hosting the 2029 ASEAN Summit, with leaders stressing the project’s role in regional integration and national infrastructure push. UAE Development Boost: The UAE has launched construction of a female student residence in Aitarak-Laran, funded by UAE Aid, designed for 300 students from low-income families and set to include a clinic, study rooms and cafeteria. Independence Day Diplomacy: On Timor-Leste’s 24th Independence Restoration anniversary, President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão traded congratulations messages with counterparts, while the Sahrawi leadership also sent formal greetings. Regional Business Context: Beyond Timor-Leste, the week’s coverage also flagged wider economic pressure from Middle East-linked slowdowns and ongoing energy and marine-conservation moves across the Coral Triangle.