DILI, Oct. 27 (Xinhua) -- At dusk in Dili, Timor-Leste's capital, the western Tibar Bay glows orange-gold as cranes rise and fall over the harbor. At the Tibar Bay Port quay, containers are being loaded and unloaded, in the sunset, workers move briskly against the light.

Built by a Chinese enterprise, this port is one of the most symbolic infrastructure projects since Timor-Leste restored independence in 2002. For a young nation of about 15,000 square km and fewer than 1.4 million people, the port's bustle signals momentum to integrate into the regional economy.

Timor-Leste is rich in oil and gas, bringing both wealth and dependence. Meanwhile, one-third of the population spends less than 2 U.S. dollars a day, and over half lack access to safe drinking water. Income gaps and a narrow economic base make development a winding path.

On its journey to overcome hardship and to modernize, China has remained a steadfast partner at Timor-Leste's side.

The Suai-Beaco Highway is the country's largest transport project since independence and its first expressway was built by the CSCEC-China Railway First Group in Timor-Leste. Since opening in 2018, this arterial route has significantly improved travel conditions and boosted regional connectivity.

"The project has delivered sustained benefits since completion, strongly supporting Timor-Leste's economic and social development and providing valuable experience for future cooperation," said Li Shengnan, head of CSCEC's Timor-Leste branch.

In recent years, cooperation has expanded into many fields. A Chinese-assisted hybrid rice demonstration project has helped local farmers secure good harvests; many Timorese youths have received Chinese government scholarships to study in China; and Chinese medical teams have been stationed long-term, delivering healthcare with professionalism and dedication.

In central Dili, a seafront football pitch built with Chinese assistance has become the city's "new living room."

"Children used to play on sandy lots; now they have a safe, clean place. People chat and exercise here, and the community feels more harmonious," said Manuel, a local.

Alongside deepening bilateral cooperation, new regional opportunities are opening. At the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, Timor-Leste was formally admitted as ASEAN's 11th member in the presence of the group's leaders.

"Joining ASEAN not only raises Timor-Leste's political standing but also opens a broader platform for development," said Laurentina Mica Barreto Soares, a professor at the National University of Timor-Leste.

Looking ahead, veteran media professional Jacob Ximenes noted, "As Asia's youngest country, Timor-Leste is still 'growing.' Its future depends on sound governance and reform at home, and on external cooperation and support. Timor-Leste's story is that of a small nation pursuing its dreams, and of partners advancing together." ■