Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) are set to sign a landmark defence treaty, agreeing to defend each other in the event of a military attack. The deal, known as the Pukpuk treaty, will be formalised during celebrations marking PNG's 50th independence anniversary in Port Moresby this week.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and PNG Defence Minister Billy Joseph downplayed delays in finalising the agreement, which fell short of a cabinet quorum due to independence festivities. Joseph emphasised that the pact would not affect PNG's sovereignty, stating, 'We're still an independent nation.'
The treaty aims to counter China's growing influence in the Pacific. It will allow PNG citizens to join the Australian Defence Force, enable Australians to serve with PNG troops, and promote joint military training, exercises, and cybersecurity cooperation. Joseph confirmed PNG's choice of Australia as its primary defence partner, noting that 'some external players have tried to distract us, but we've stayed focused.'
Albanese, along with Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles and Pacific Minister Pat Conroy, is attending the independence celebrations. Prince Edward is representing the UK. Officials from China and the US are also present in PNG this week. The opposition leader, Sussan Ley, supported the security partnership, while Greens spokesman David Shoebridge criticised the lack of public debate on the treaty.
Australia will fund an extension to PNG's national parliament as a gift to commemorate independence. The deal follows a separate agreement between Australia and Vanuatu earlier this month, valued at up to $500 million over a decade for climate resilience and security.
