Energy & Development: East Timor has started construction of a major solar power plant and energy storage project in Manatuto, a $107 million joint venture between EDF and Itochu, expected to cut fuel dependence and supply about 30% of electricity demand by 2028. Economy Opening: President José Ramos-Horta urged foreign firms to “be adventurous” as Timor-Leste opens up its economy, pointing to how risk-taking can pay off in the country. ASEAN Diplomacy: In Manila, the US said any ASEAN-China South China Sea Code of Conduct must not undermine US interests, while ASEAN also granted Türkiye full Dialogue Partner status, expanding cooperation across political-security, trade and culture. Mobility Watch: A Henley Passport Index update shows East Timor ranked 52nd globally and 4th in ASEAN for visa-free access, highlighting the country’s growing travel reach. Climate & Children: UNICEF warned that climate change is hitting Timorese children hard, with droughts, landslides and floods disrupting schools and health services, while partners push solar-powered schools and climate-resilient clinics.