The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, in an exclusive interview with Bernama, said Asean’s decades-long experience in diplomacy and conflict resolution places it in a unique position to promote dialogue and understanding amid intensifying superpower rivalries.

“Asean has the potential to be a bridge builder between the conflicting rivalries of the major powers.

“It has prestige, it has credibility, and it can very well more actively pursue a solution for the crisis in Myanmar,” he said, referring to the conflict in the junta-ruled Asean member state.

Ramos-Horta, who has been a consistent advocate for peace and regional harmony, suggested that Asean’s quiet diplomacy and collective engagement could offer a path forward where unilateral approaches have failed.

On the South China Sea dispute, Ramos-Horta stressed that the region must avoid confrontation by maintaining freedom of navigation and reducing military build-up in contested waters.

“No claimant state will back down. The solution is to freeze claims and make the South China Sea a sea of peace and partnership.

“Allow only traditional fishing and stop overfishing, that will also prevent clashes between fleets,” he said.

He noted that such an arrangement could not only ease regional tensions but also promote sustainable resource management and maritime cooperation, turning a zone of contention into one of shared prosperity.

Ramos-Horta expressed optimism that both China and the United States could support Asean-led initiatives for peace if diplomacy and dialogue remain at the forefront.

Beyond geopolitics, the Timorese leader also shared his vision for inclusive economic development.

Emphasising job creation over tax collection as the foundation of national growth, he said prosperity must begin with employment opportunities that uplift citizens’ livelihoods.

“What is more important for a developing country, collecting taxes or creating jobs? If we prioritise jobs, prosperity follows,” he said.