Timor-Leste Supports Philippines’ Bid for UN Security Council Seat

Manila – Timor-Leste has expressed strong support for the Philippines’ candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported in a joint press statement on Friday that Timor-Leste’s endorsement came during President José Ramos-Horta’s state visit to the Philippines. During a bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace, Ramos-Horta acknowledged the Philippines’ role in supporting Timor-Leste’s economic development and its crucial participation during the early years of Timor-Leste’s statehood.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ramos-Horta highlighted the Philippines’ significant contribution to Timor-Leste since before its independence and particularly during the critical period of 1999. The Philippines, which last served on the UNSC in 2004, has been actively advocating for assistance tailored to the needs of young states like Timor-Leste. President Marcos Jr. first announced the Philippines’ bid for the UNSC during the 77th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2022, citing the nation’s peace-building efforts as a qualifying factor. The DFA noted that while some states have already committed support for the Philippines’ candidacy, either unilaterally or through mutual arrangements, many others are yet to make formal decisions. The election for the UNSC seat will occur during the 81st UN General Assembly in 2026. The UNSC comprises 15 member states, including five permanent members, and all UN member states are bound to comply with its decisions under the UN Charter.