Gas Development: Sunda Energy secured a 12-month extension for its Chuditch gas PSC, giving it and state-owned TIMOR GAP more time to agree on drilling plans and approvals. President José Ramos-Horta says the first Greater Sunrise project agreements could be signed early next year, though the proposed LNG development still faces doubts over commercial viability. Energy Investment: Ramos-Horta says costly diesel power and dwindling aid are holding back investment, while arguing oil and gas development is needed to fund economic diversification. Regional Ties: Timor-Leste and Indonesia are seeking broader trade and business links; bilateral trade reached US$273.86 million in January–August, up 1.59% year on year. Mining: Estrella Resources won approval to begin its first drilling campaign at the Laleno Dome, testing for copper-gold deposits. Jobs and Skills: A joint ILO, Indonesia and Timor-Leste programme trained 31 employment officers in counselling jobseekers and responding to employers’ needs. Offshore Oil: Finder Energy contracted a rig for a planned three-well development campaign at the Kuda Tasi and Jahal fields, subject to further approvals.