Timor-Leste, Indonesia conclude the fourth round of maritime boundary negotiations

DILI, 04 September 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste and Indonesia have concluded the fourth round of formal maritime boundary negotiations, held in Jakarta from 1–3 September 2026.

The three-day talks in Jakarta built on discussions during the previous three rounds in Dili, Yogyakarta and Singapore, with both sides agreeing to continue efforts to reach mutually acceptable outcomes in accordance with international law.

Timor-Leste’s delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and Chief Executive Officer of the Land and Maritime Boundary Office, Elizabeth Exposto.

The Indonesian delegation was led by the Director-General for Legal Affairs and International Treaties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, H.E. Ambassador Ricky Suhendar.

“Building on progress made during the previous three rounds in Dili, Yogyakarta and Singapore, the two delegations continued to deepen their understanding of each other’s positions, identify remaining differences and explore ways to narrow them,” said in a statement.

The three-day fourth round of negotiations was marked by open and frank dialogue, reflecting the trust between the two delegations and their shared commitment to constructive engagement.

Timor-Leste and Indonesia continued substantive discussions across the different segments under consideration and reaffirmed their commitment to working towards equitable and mutually acceptable outcomes that are consitent with international law, in particular UNCLOS.

The two countries agreed to hold the fifth round of negotiations in December 2026. Following Indonesia’s hosting of the fourth round, the fifth round will be hosted by Timor-Leste.

TATOLI