Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed a multi-million-dollar defence treaty.
The Pukpuk Treaty aims to expand the PNG-Australia defence relationship.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously tried to secure the military alliance during a visit to the Pacific Island nation last month.
The Federal Government is seeking to counter China’s influence in the region, including negotiating a deal with Vanuatu.
Pukpuk Treaty
The Pukpuk Treaty is a defence deal aimed at “strengthening” the military relationship between Australia and PNG.
For example, it would recognise “an armed attack” on either country as a security threat.
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The alliance would also open up “recruitment pathways” for PNG citizens to serve in the Australian Defence Force.
Both governments have described the pact as a commitment to a “peaceful, stable and prosperous” region, amid concerns around China’s growing presence in the Pacific.
Vanuatu
Last month, Vanuatu walked back its commitment to finalise a $500 million infrastructure, climate, and security deal with Australia.
At the time, Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat flagged concerns that the contract could interfere with the nation’s relationship with other countries, including China.
The deal remained unsigned. In the interim, Vanuatu’s Internal Affairs Minister Andrew Napuat travelled to China to organise a policing deal.
