ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: Foreign ministers’ meetings kick off in Manila ahead of July 21 talks, with leaders expected from Russia, China, the US, Japan, India, New Zealand and the EU, plus ASEAN’s 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation. Offshore Energy Survey Contract: Fugro won a deal to run deepwater geophysical, seismic and AUV surveys off Timor-Leste for Greater Sunrise and Bayu Undan, with fieldwork planned to start in Q4 2026. ASEAN Membership Spotlight: A new look at Timor-Leste’s “hard-won” path into ASEAN highlights Malaysia’s support and the push to diversify beyond oil. Labour Mobility for Timorese Workers: New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme adds Timor-Leste for 2026, bringing thousands of workers to orchards and vineyards. Regional Solidarity on Human Rights: FRETILIN calls for the immediate release of Sahrawi defender Naâma Asfari, citing his deteriorating health and long hunger strike. Community Safety and Education: Timor-Leste-linked stories also echo wider regional efforts—like school safety gear and science education support—showing how local initiatives shape daily life.