Conference of the Luso-Asian Community (APCC) held in Dili, establishing a bridge for cultural and diplomatic ties between the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

His Excellency the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Dato’ Seri Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, declared in his opening speech at the second session of the APCC Conference, held at the CCD in Dili, on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

The Luso-Asian Community represents a group formed by ethnic communities in Asia who have descendants, influence, or ties with Portugal, particularly in language, customs, religion, or historical heritage dating back to the 16th century, when Portugal expanded its maritime empire and established colonies and trade relations in many regions of Asia.

This conference not only represents a moment for historical reflection but also aims to reaffirm an identity that strongly connects the nations of Timor-Leste, the Asian people, and the Lusophone world.

“Today, the conference is very important for building a bridge of cultural and diplomatic relations between the CPLP and ASEAN, based on the continuity of our generations, preserving and maintaining the rich Cultural Heritage that has existed, while honoring the promise of respect for historical heritage and the sentiment of belonging and unity in diversity,” Francisco Kalbuadi Lay declared.

Timor-Leste, a nation that uses Portuguese as an official language and is a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), wishes to reaffirm that Timor-Leste is proud to be an important part of the Luso-Asian family, reflecting the interconnectedness between East and West.

Today, the community comes together to celebrate diversity and reaffirm their common commitment to cooperation, sustainable development, cultural tourism, religion, and strengthening economic relations among the peoples.

“I hope that this conference will be a space for sharing ideas and dialogue in constructing a common future for our community,” the Vice Prime Minister emphasized.

The Vice Prime Minister also hopes that this connection will grow stronger and provide an opportunity to build a brighter future for the next generation.

At the second session, the writer, independent journalist, photographer, and historian of the Portuguese Expansion, Joaquim Magalhães de Castro, presented on “BAYINGYIS: THE LUSO-DESCENDANTS OF THE MU VALLEY, WHO THEY ARE AND HOW THEY EMERGED?”

Participants in this session included Prime Minister (PM) Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, government members, representatives of the Portuguese community from Malacca (Malaysia), Portuguese Burghers from Batticaloa (Sri Lanka), the Bayingyis from the Mu Valley (Myanmar), parish representatives from Conceição, Sta. Cruz, and Nossa Senhora do Rosário (Thailand), Macau (China), Goa (India), Tugu Mardijkers from Jakarta, and the Larantuqueiros or Topasses from the island of Flores (Indonesia).

The conference also brought together academics, researchers, cultural leaders, artists, and dignitaries from across the Lusophone world to share the results of their studies and various experiences, including students from universities in Dili and invited guests.