Timor Gap, Maritime boundary in Timor Sea, East Timor
The Timor Gap is a maritime zone in the Timor Sea situated between Australia and the island of Timor. It covers a distance of several hundred kilometers and divides the coastal waters of both territories.
Border negotiations between Australia and Indonesia started in the 1970s, with Portugal as the then-administrator of Timor excluded from discussions. A permanent agreement with East Timor was finalized in the early 2000s.
The maritime boundary represents the determination of East Timorese people to secure economic sovereignty through control of their offshore natural resources.
Keep in mind that this maritime zone is not accessible on foot and can only be reached by boat or aircraft. The area is governed by maritime laws and border regulations that may apply to private vessels.
The seafloor beneath this zone holds major oil and gas deposits that both countries use for economic benefit. These resources played a key role in shaping the border agreements and negotiations.
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