ASEAN & Timor-Leste in the spotlight: ASEAN’s 2025 momentum continues to matter for Timor-Leste, with the bloc’s “substantive agreement” on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) pushing shared digital trade rules, support for MSMEs, and data security—despite Myanmar turmoil and border tensions. Regional diplomacy with a Timor-Leste link: Timor-Leste is also in the mix of CEAPAD’s Manila ministerial push for Palestinian development, while Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn urged ASEAN to back the safe return of displaced civilians in Cambodia after a border ceasefire. Energy and investment ties: Timor-Leste is courting Indian investment in LNG, oil refining, and education as relations deepen, with the Greater Sunrise field cited as a long-term opportunity. Climate & children: UNICEF highlights how climate change hits Timorese children hardest—flooded classrooms, disrupted clinics, and crop losses—while partners respond with solar-powered schools, resilient health facilities, and child-focused social protection. Culture & remembrance: Portuguese-Timorese cause supporter singer Luís Represas has died, remembered for a career spanning Trovante hits and a “Timor” song, plus honors from Timor-Leste’s leadership.