Gas Deal Update: East Timor President José Ramos-Horta says the Greater Sunrise agreement with Australia is close and could be finalized in July, a major step for the country after its last producing field shut down in 2025. UNESCO Conservation: UNESCO marked World Environment Day by designating 14 new biosphere reserves worldwide, bringing the total to 797 sites across 145 countries, with biospheres described as “living laboratories” for climate and biodiversity solutions. ASEAN & Diplomacy: At the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in Hanoi, leaders including Timor-Leste pushed a stronger, more proactive ASEAN role—shaping regional rules rather than only reacting to shocks. Regional Support: Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine donations to Pacific nations topped 1 million doses, including about 278,000 for Timor-Leste. Defence Cooperation: New Zealand and Timor-Leste signed an updated defence cooperation arrangement covering training, education, maritime security, and disaster relief. Blue Economy: Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister launched a Blue Economy website to support ocean-based development. Global Peace Index: Timor-Leste is listed among Asia-Pacific countries in the Global Peace Index 2026, as the report notes a broader global decline in peacefulness.