Timor Resources briefs the Prime Minister on developments in onshore oil exploration
On April 16th, 2026, Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão met with officials from Timor Resources at the Government Palace in Dili to review developments in onshore oil exploration in Timor-Leste and discuss the transition from exploration to appraisal and development. 
During the meeting, company representatives provided an update on ongoing activities, highlighting the drilling of three onshore wells in the Suai region of the municipality of Covalima as part of the project’s initial phase. The company reported that the work has achieved a high success rate and that activities are underway to evaluate the discoveries.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss Timor Resources’ plans to proceed with developing the identified reserves, including new drilling in areas with potential for oil and gas. The company indicated its intention to continue investing with a view to future energy production in the country.
Christopher Moyes, Executive Director of Timor Resources, said, “Timor Resources has already drilled three onshore wells in Timor-Leste. We are now moving from the exploration phase to the appraisal and development phase. Today we had the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister and share our enthusiasm for this project. We also requested his support to continue moving forward, to ensure benefits for both our company and Timor-Leste.”
Julie Bishop, Australia’s former Minister for Foreign Affairs and the company’s current adviser; Chris McCown, the project’s Acting General Manager for Operations; and Francisco da Costa Monteiro, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, also attended the meeting.
