In a world of shifting alliances, small nations often seek new partnerships to protect their interests. This is exactly what East Timor is doing today.
On June 5, 2025, the country’s president, José Ramos-Horta, confirmed that East Timor is applying to join the Commonwealth of Nations.
His goal: to strengthen the country’s global ties and create a counterweight to China’s growing influence in the region.
East Timor, officially known as Timor-Leste, is a young nation in Southeast Asia. After years of struggle, it gained independence in 2002.
Since then, it has worked to build connections with both its Asian neighbors and the wider world. China has been offering trade deals and development aid in the region, but East Timor wants to avoid becoming too dependent on any single partner.
While the country recently signed a trade agreement with China, Ramos-Horta made it clear that there is no military aspect to that deal. Joining the Commonwealth would give East Timor access to new opportunities in education and diplomacy.
It would also allow the country to voice its concerns on global platforms, especially as China’s presence in Asia continues to expand.
East Timor has no colonial link to Britain, but that is no obstacle. Other nations without such ties — including Mozambique, Rwanda, Gabon, and Togo — have already joined the Commonwealth.
The country’s likely entry into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) later this year also shows its determination to deepen regional cooperation.
In a sign of growing Western interest, the United Kingdom plans to open an embassy in East Timor’s capital, Dili. For a small nation like East Timor, building a diverse network of international friends may be the best way to safeguard its future.