Ultimately, for all the criticisms that East Timor should have secured a bet-ter deal, it should be emphasised that the potential benefits to East Timor in
terms of the proposed resource-sharing under CMATS, and thus in terms of
enhanced future income, are extremely significant. These resources are poten-tially of huge benefit to East Timor. The substantial additional income stream
in view, once the Greater Sunrise Project proceeds, offers the prospect of the
availability of funds for development in the long term. While proceeds from
development of reserves within the JPDA, particularly the Bayu-Undan field,
provide a viable income stream for the present, CMATS should deliver sub-stantial funding over a longer time frame. The CMATS deal therefore arguably
offers a genuine opportunity for East Timor to break dependence on aid and
provide for sustained and sustainable development.