ASEAN Diplomacy: Manila opened a run of ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meetings (July 21) with major dialogue-partner talks and energy security on the agenda, including ratification steps for the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement—Timor-Leste is listed among the bloc’s 11 members. Offshore Energy & Engineering: Fugro won a contract for deepwater offshore site characterization for Timor-Leste’s Greater Sunrise and Bayu Undan gas developments, using geophysical, seismic and autonomous underwater vehicle surveys; mobilization is set for Q3 2026 and operations for Q4. Regional Integration & Policy: Vietnam says it will share experience with Timor-Leste as it prepares for ASEAN chairmanship in 2029, focusing on agriculture, food security, digital transformation, tourism and connectivity. Finance Sector Reform: Timor-Leste’s National Parliament approved the General Framework for the Financial System and Banking Activities, expanding the Central Bank’s powers, adding resolution and deposit insurance funds, and strengthening anti–money laundering and consumer protections. Agriculture & Jobs Link: New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme added Timor-Leste for orchard and vineyard work, bringing thousands of workers into the Pacific labour pipeline. Fuel Infrastructure: Singapore’s Global Group began building a US$10m fuel storage terminal in Timor-Leste (Liquica), targeting 10-month completion and expanded capacity by 2030. Dairy Supply: Dili Dairy Factory resumed production and returned to the market at full capacity after internal upgrades and lab testing.