DILI, 09 january 2026 (TATOLI) – Australia’s Special Envoy for the Greater Sunrise Project, Katrina Cooper, is in Timor-Leste meeting with national leaders to advance talks on the development of this oil and gas field in the Timor Sea.
On january 8, 2026, Cooper met with Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão at the Government Palace.
She also held talks with Agio Pereira, Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and Timor-Leste’s official interlocutor for the Greater Sunrise discussions.
The meetings provided an opportunity to exchange views on the progress of discussions and ongoing cooperation regarding the project.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing the Greater Sunrise Project through constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and partnership, aiming to maximize its benefits.
The discussions broadly addressed bilateral cooperation and oversight of the project’s development.
“These talks were conducted in accordance with the 2018 Treaty between Australia and Timor-Leste, which establishes maritime boundaries in the Timor Sea,” the Government said in a statement.
The discussions also highlighted the strategic importance of the project for national development.
The talks emphasized the significance of implementing the option of a pipeline connection to Timor-Leste.
Cooper reiterated the Australian Government’s commitment to working closely with Timor-Leste, project consortium partners, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the continuity of discussions.
As part of her visit, she also met President José Ramos-Horta, Foreign Minister Bendito dos Santos Freitas, and the Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Francisco da Costa Monteiro.
Previously, Katrina Cooper served as Australia’s co-agent in the Timor Sea Conciliation process, which led to the signing of the Maritime Boundaries Treaty between the two countries.
The Greater Sunrise gas fields is located approximately 140 kilometers south of Timor-Leste’s coast.
The consortium developing the Greater Sunrise field (Sunrise Joint Venture) comprises TIMOR GAP, which holds 56.6 percent, Woodside, which has a 33.44 percent stake, and Osaka Gas Australia, which has a 10 percent stake.
An independent conceptual study conducted by British company Wood between april and november 2024 confirmed the feasibility of developing the project in Timor-Leste. The study also highlighted the project’s potential contribution to the national economy.
Developing Greater Sunrise, including a pipeline to Timor-Leste’s south coast, is a national priority of the Ninth Constitutional Government to support economic growth and development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
