PNG Prime Minister James Marape confirmed on Thursday that his cabinet had approved the deal with Australia, known as the Pukpuk treaty, which will see the two countries agree to defend each other in the event of a military attack.
“This treaty is not just about maintaining barracks and boats,” Marape said. “We are investing in both hardware and software for defence so that we can effectively police our borders and safeguard our nation. Australia is our foundational relationship country.”
“Now this treaty elevates our relationship to the highest level, where force synergies and capacity development for interoperability are reached.”
This landmark defence treaty will elevate Australia and Papua New Guinea’s relationship to a full alliance, placing PNG on the same security footing as the United States and New Zealand.
The agreement also opens the door for as many as 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve with the Australian Defence Force under “dual arrangements”.
Earlier, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the treaty, saying:
“Our two nations are the closest of neighbours and the closest of friends, and this treaty will elevate our relationship to a formal alliance.”
The Pukpuk treaty had been due to be signed during Albanese’s visit to PNG last month for the country’s 50th independence anniversary, but it was delayed after PNG’s cabinet failed to reach a quorum.
Security experts say the treaty strengthens Australia’s position in the Pacific, countering growing Chinese influence in the region. It follows a series of regional agreements, including a $600 million NRL deal for PNG, and reflects Canberra’s push to deepen defence and economic ties across Oceania.
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