Timor-Leste Strengthens Economic Relations at Meeting with ASEAN, Gulf and China Countries

The Minister of Commerce and Industry, Nino Pereira, participated in the Fortune ASEAN-GCC-China Economic Forum, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on May 27-28, 2025. The meeting was organized by the Government of Malaysia, through the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, in partnership with Fortune magazine, and brought together representatives from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the People’s Republic of China.

The ASEAN-GCC-China Fortune brought together government leaders, policymakers and private sector representatives from the three regions, with the aim of strengthening strategic collaboration in areas such as emerging technologies, sustainable investment and energy security. The event took place in parallel with the first ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, the second ASEAN-GCC Summit – which was also attended by Minister Nino Pereira – and the 46th ASEAN Summit, which was attended by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.

The forum provided a platform for dialogue to identify bold reforms and policy solutions aimed at promoting a sustainable and inclusive future. Under the theme “Inclusiveness and Sustainability”, the discussions focused on the main challenges faced by companies, strategies to strengthen investment and business practices aimed at increasing global competitiveness. Together, ASEAN, GCC and China represent more than two billion consumers and around 20% of the world’s Gross Domestic Product.

On the evening of May 27, the Minister of Trade and Industry also attended the Official Gala Dinner offered to the participating delegations, which was attended by ASEAN leaders, economy ministers, private sector representatives from the GCC and China. The program included opening speeches, cultural performances and the launch of the ASEAN-GCC-China theme song, symbolizing the strengthening of economic and cultural ties between the three.