The two governments, perhaps unsurprisingly, greeted the signing of CMATS
as a major achievement and a significant step forward in bilateral relations.
Australian Prime Minister Howard hailed the agreement as a “fair and just
outcome” which would allow the “very close relationship” between the two
countries “not only to continue, but become even closer.” For his part, East
Timor’s then Prime Minister Alkatiri termed it “a very difficult step that we
suceeded to overcome” and one that would be “very good for both countries.”
The East Timorese Foreign Minister concurred, terming the Treaty “a
fair and just deal for the two sides” and “what you call a win-win solution.