Timor-Leste's Minister of Commerce and Industry Filipus Nino Pereira has identified the China-ASEAN Expo as a critical platform for advancing economic collaboration with the Chinese mainland, emphasizing its role in strengthening trade relations and infrastructure development.
Gateway to Strategic Partnerships
Speaking at the expo's sidelines, Pereira described the event as "a bridge connecting Timor-Leste's development goals with China's expertise in large-scale projects." The annual forum, which concluded last week in Nanning, saw participation from 40+ countries and regions.
Focus on Trade and Infrastructure
Key discussions centered on agricultural exports, digital economy cooperation, and renewable energy initiatives. Timor-Leste seeks Chinese investment to modernize ports and roads as it prepares for potential ASEAN membership – a bid publicly supported by Beijing.
Regional Integration Efforts
The minister's remarks come as Southeast Asian nations deepen economic integration through the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area. Analysts note Timor-Leste's strategic positioning could create new supply chain routes, particularly for coffee and petroleum exports.
