Wellington, 3 November 2025. – The Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to New Zealand, Luis Ernesto Morejón Rodríguez, took part in the reception held in Wellington to mark the accession of Timor-Leste to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as its eleventh Member State. The event was attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of the New Zealand Government, and delegates from ASEAN member countries accredited in Wellington.
The Cuban Ambassador conveyed his warmest congratulations to the Government and people of Timor-Leste on this historic occasion, which represents an important step forward in strengthening regional integration and cooperation in Southeast Asia.
The Caribbean nation maintains strong and friendly relations with the ASEAN community, based on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to the principles of multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development. Cuba recognizes the important role of ASEAN in promoting dialogue, stability, and international cooperation.
At the United Nations, Cuba acknowledges and appreciates the consistent support of ASEAN Member States for the resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, which was once again adopted this year by an overwhelming majority in the General Assembly. This support reaffirms the commitment of the international community to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
Cuba and Timor-Leste share a longstanding relationship of solidarity and cooperation, established shortly after the restoration of Timor-Leste’s independence. Cuba has contributed to the training of hundreds of Timorese doctors through its medical scholarship programme and continues to support the country’s health system through Cuban medical cooperation. Collaboration has also extended to education, agriculture, and disaster risk reduction, reflecting the spirit of friendship and mutual support that characterizes bilateral relations.
Cuba reiterates its congratulations to Timor-Leste and reaffirms its commitment to continue strengthening its relations with the nations of ASEAN and the wider Asia-Pacific region, in the pursuit of peace, cooperation, and shared prosperity.