Both Ramos-Horta and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala committed to work towards accomplishing this “important objective for both Timor-Leste and the WTO, building on their previous discussions,” according to a statement from the WTO.

Timor-Leste applied to join the trade body in April 2015 and the country’s WTO accession working party was established 7 December 2016.

In a speech in July 2022, Rui Macieira, the Chairperson of Timor-Leste’s WTO accession working party told the Working party talks: “Timor-Leste has registered remarkable progress in its WTO accession effort.”

“Timor-Leste's accession is well on track for conclusion by end of year, or early next year, provided that all remaining elements are agreed with Members, especially on market access..” he said.  

Timor-Leste has been clear on its twin goal of achieving Association of Southeast Asian Nation and WTO Membership.

President Ramos-Horta said in a recorded speech to the Working Party on 20 April 2023: “For us, becoming a member is essential to unleash the potential of our economy in several sectors.”

“Trade is an engine for development and Timor-Leste has a huge potential yet to be explored. As a full member, we will be able to diversify our economy, become part of the value chain of global economies and bring about more cross-border business opportunities,” he said