In contrast, Australia has argued that, consistent with its long-standing view
inspired by the concept of natural prolongation, the division of the Timor Sea
should reflect what it regards as two separate continental shelves separated by
the Timor Trough. While East Timor contends that this position relies on out-moded concepts of international law and contests the scientific validity of Australia’s argument as well,45
Australia has nonetheless proved steadfast in its
negotiating stance. Australia has also refused to countenance what it views as
East Timor’s lateral “ambit claims” to the east and west of the Timor Gap.