In a statement, the government said Foreign Minister Bendito dos Santos Freitas had been elected First Vice-Chair of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) during meetings held in Bangkok.

ESCAP is the UN’s main regional platform for promoting economic and social cooperation across Asia and the Pacific, bringing together governments to coordinate policy on issues including trade, sustainable development and regional connectivity.

According to the official release, Freitas also chaired a high-level debate during the session, focusing on regional development challenges and cooperation priorities.

The government said the appointment reflects growing international recognition of Timor-Leste’s role in regional diplomacy and multilateral forums.

The announcement was made in a press statement issued on April 23, following the conclusion of the ESCAP meetings.