Myanmar warns Timor-Leste over another act of interference in internal affairs
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Htet Nadi (NP News)- January 17
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has summoned and warned the acting charge d'affaires of the Embassy of Timor-Leste, according to information from the MOFA.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, U Hau Khan Sum, summoned Mr. Elísio do Rosário de Sousa, Chargé d'Affaires from the Embassy of Timor-Leste in Yangon, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on January 16.
During the meeting, the Permanent Secretary conveyed Myanmar's strong opposition to the Timor-Leste government's interference in Myanmar's internal affairs and engagement with opposition groups, in violation of its commitment to abide by the ASEAN Charter and ASEAN's fundamental principles.
The warning comes after reports emerged that the President of Timor-Leste met with the Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) on January 14.
Previously, on July 5, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of Timor-Leste to Naypyidaw over meetings between the President of Timor-Leste and representatives of the National Unity Government (NUG).
Then, the government ordered the Charge d’ Affaires of the Timor Leste to leave Myanmar before September 1, 2023 for intervening Myanmar’s internal affairs; and disregarding the sovereignty and pride.
Following these developments, Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Mr. Bendito dos Santos Freitas, stated on September 18, 2025 that Timor-Leste would not allow organizations opposing the Myanmar government to open offices or engage in illegal opposition activities. This statement was made during a meeting with Myanmar’s Union Minister for Foreign Affairs, U Than Swe.
During the meeting, discussions were also held on signing bilateral agreements similar to those between Myanmar and other ASEAN member states. These included a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports, as well as visa-free travel arrangements aimed at promoting tourism between the two countries.
Despite these engagements and Timor-Leste’s progress toward ASEAN membership, concerns have been raised again that recent actions by Timor-Leste contradict the principles of non-interference and respect for Myanmar’s sovereignty.