New Delhi, India:
H.E. Ambassador Karlito Nunes addressed a high-level roundtable discussion on “Fostering Maritime Connectivity and Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience between India and ASEAN” in New Delhi, emphasizing the growing importance of regional cooperation amid global uncertainties.
The event was co-organized by the ASEAN-India Centre, Research and Information System for Developing Countries, Global South Centre of Excellence, and the Center for Maritime Economy and Connectivity.
In his remarks, Ambassador Nunes highlighted a significant milestone: Timor-Leste has officially become the 11th member of ASEAN. He described the development as a reflection of ASEAN’s commitment to inclusivity and regional unity, noting that the inclusion of the strategically located island nation enhances the bloc’s maritime dimension.
According to Nunes, Timor-Leste’s membership strengthens ASEAN’s collective potential in maritime cooperation, connectivity expansion, and the development of more resilient and diversified supply chains across the Indo-Pacific.
The Ambassador also addressed the broader global context, citing ongoing geopolitical tensions in parts of the Middle East and shifting dynamics among Western economies. These factors, he said, have disrupted global trade and energy security, exposing vulnerabilities caused by overdependence on limited trade routes and partners.
He stressed that maritime connectivity—through efficient shipping networks, modern ports, and streamlined logistics—has become a critical pillar for economic stability and growth. In this regard, the partnership between India and ASEAN was described as strategically vital, grounded in a shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Highlighting Timor-Leste’s priorities, Nunes noted that the country views the ocean as central to its economic development, security, and livelihoods. He pointed to ongoing investments in infrastructure, particularly the development of the Tibar Bay port, aimed at improving trade logistics and positioning the nation as an emerging maritime hub.
Looking ahead, the Ambassador emphasized opportunities for deeper cooperation between India and Timor-Leste, especially in areas such as maritime governance capacity building, port modernization, and logistics efficiency.
He also underscored the importance of improving connectivity. Strengthened shipping links between India and Timor-Leste, along with enhanced air connectivity, would reduce transit times, boost trade, and promote tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
Concluding his address, Ambassador Nunes stated that integrating emerging economies like Timor-Leste into regional frameworks is essential for building a balanced, inclusive, and resilient regional architecture. He reiterated that enhancing maritime connectivity and strengthening supply chains must remain central to collective regional efforts.