Settled Business:
The resource is real.
The Gov't wants a SM as a SM will be alive in PNG after all of us and O'Neill are dead and they will still be pumping gas out of PPL 237.
There are 3 SM's at least (XOM, RDS, TOT), all acceptable to a non divided BoD of IOC.
The fate of the SD partner choice and therefore the commercialisation program is in O'Neill/PNG hands. Right Now.
Those 3 SMs are lifting their skirts and charming O'Neill in the 'beauty contest'
O'Neill needs XOM expansion and Gulf LNG startup and all those jobs in the Petroleum parks planned.
PNG needs tax revenues.
JP/SK/CH need more LNG. Supply holes are growing by AU LNG cancellations.
SM's need profitable project and to book reserves.
IOC's goal is to survive as an operating entity with control of 237, 238 and 236.
We need a transaction.
The price and timing is of really no consequence to the fact we need a transaction. We will get the best transaction possible. (My bet is $2/Mcf +)
The transaction process has been launched to O'Neill's lap if you can trust Collin and Wayne's quotes.
Timing depends on O'Neill.
This is exactly where we all have been waiting to be. Enjoy it.

