In negotiations with Indonesia, Australia used the continental shelf argument -- that a maritime boundary should lie along the deepest point of the ocean floor between the two countries -- and gained 85 percent of the sea territory, which it held until East Timor voted for independence in 1999. Australia's negotiating tactics show its tenacity in trying to keep as much control of the sea as possible.

Dili's new leadership signed the Timor Gap Treaty to start money flowing into the country as soon as possible, delaying the unavoidably contentious debate with Jakarta and Canberra over who will get the most beneficial maritime boundaries. The inevitable negotiations probably will rear their ugly heads before East Timor sees any significant revenue. Even once they do, the current arrangement and Australia's considerable influence likely will keep East Timor from receiving the highest potential profits.

Maps courtesy of STRATFOR.com

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