Dili remains optimistic regarding the new round of maritime border negotiations with Indonesia. Elizabeth Exposto, director of the Office of Land and Maritime Borders, stated today that East Timor is hopeful about the progress of these talks, with the third round taking place this week in Singapore.
The first two rounds of discussions established a good understanding between the two nations. As the third round begins in Singapore, East Timor is optimistic about advancing these bilateral talks in a spirit of friendship and cooperation, said the head of the prime minister’s cabinet, Xanana Gusmão, in a statement.
The third round of negotiations will continue until Thursday. Both parties have demonstrated a commitment to listening to and understanding each other’s perspectives, aiming for an equitable and lasting solution in accordance with international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
With a structured agenda already agreed upon for this third round in Singapore, East Timor is confident that the discussions over these three days will lead to acceptable results for both nations, added Elizabeth Exposto.
Read more: East Timor: Indonesia dismantles vehicle smuggling ring
Delimiting the maritime border with Indonesia is a national priority for East Timor to finalize the permanent definition of its maritime borders, following an agreement reached with Australia in March 2018.
Under discussion are four maritime segments, including the south coast in the Timor Sea, the west and east, and the north, within the Oecussi enclave. The enclave raises specific issues as it is surrounded by Indonesian territory.
Negotiations also cover two maritime sections in the north of East Timor, specifically in the waters from Batugade to Atauro Island, and across the Wetar Strait to Jaco Island.
