H.E. Ambassador António de Sá Benevides
In an exclusive interview, H.E. António de Sá Benevides, Ambassador of Timor-Leste to the Republic of Korea, shares a comprehensive vision regarding the flourishing partnership between Timor-Leste and South Korea, and the historic milestone of Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN.
The Diplomatic Foundation
Arriving in Seoul in October 2024, Ambassador Benevides was immediately struck by the Republic of Korea’s extraordinary modernity, technological innovation, and impeccable organization...
Timor-Leste: A Strategic Hub
Ambassador Benevides emphasized that Timor-Leste holds a unique and strategic geopolitical position as a natural bridge between Southeast Asia and the Pacific. With a population where more than half are under 25, he views this youth not as a challenge, but as the country’s greatest resource: "This youth is the genius that will build the Timor-Leste of tomorrow."
The Historic ASEAN Milestone
On October 26, 2025, Timor-Leste officially became the 11th member of ASEAN. Ambassador Benevides described this as a "dream turned reality." For Timor-Leste, ASEAN membership is far more than an economic endeavor; it is an affirmation of its regional identity. Accession provides Timor-Leste with favorable access to major markets such as Korea, Japan, China, Australia, and India, upholding the ASEAN spirit: "Alone we go faster, but together we go further."