ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told ASEAN partners the US “will never abandon” the bloc, while warning that any move by Iran to control and toll the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent for global trade. Timor-Leste–India Energy Push: Timor-Leste is inviting Indian investment in LNG, oil refining and education as ties deepen, with plans linked to the Greater Sunrise gas field. ASEAN Membership and Digital Progress: A review of ASEAN’s 2025 push highlights Timor-Leste’s accession and progress on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, even as Myanmar and border tensions persist. Regional Security and Waters: Japan’s foreign minister pledged closer ASEAN cooperation to defend territories and territorial waters amid concerns about China’s assertive actions, including work on critical minerals and disaster response. Humanitarian and Rights Pressure: ASEAN discussions also included calls for safer returns for displaced civilians and stronger, results-focused diplomacy on Myanmar. Climate and Children in Timor-Leste: UNICEF says the climate crisis is a child rights emergency in Timor-Leste, with droughts, landslides and floods disrupting schools, clinics and livelihoods. Local Governance Brief: The Council of Ministers met in Dili, hearing updates on local government reform, an official visit to Portugal, and church-related ceremonies.