MANILA, Nov. 1 -- The Philippines is looking to develop a closer defense partnership with Timor-Leste as the young nation formally becomes part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. expressed Manila's intention during a bilateral meeting with Timor-Leste Defense Minister, Rear Admiral Donaciano Do Rosario Da Costa Gomes, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur on Oct. 31.

In a press statement on Saturday, the Department of National Defense (DND) said both officials noted that the many historical, geographical, and cultural similarities between the Philippines and Timor-Leste can serve as a foundation for stronger bilateral relat...