Defence treaty between Australia and PNG has been delayed

The Pukpuk Treaty is aimed at expanding the PNG-Australia defence relationship.

Both countries have expressed their intention to sign a deal, but officials blamed logistical issues for a delay in finalising it.

It comes after Vanuatu postponed a deal with Australia last week, as the Federal Government seeks to counter China’s influence in the region.

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.

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.

Delays

The Federal Government was seeking to finalise the treaty during the PM’s visit to Port Moresby this week.

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However, PNG has not yet approved the deal.

Albanese and his counterpart, Prime Minister James Marape, said celebrations to mark 50 years of PNG’s independence had caused some delays.

Speaking in the country’s capital on Wednesday, Marape insisted his government intends to sign the deal.

According to Albanese, the “wording” of the alliance has been agreed to.

The matter is in the hands of both countries’ parliaments for final review, he explained.

With the deal expected to be finalised in the “coming weeks,” Albanese and Marape have instead signed a joint communique.

“Australia and Papua New Guinea will work together to build our unique partnership and to progress our region for the betterment of our nations and our peoples... [the Treaty] will reflect and deepen the trust we share as the closest of neighbours,” it read.

Vanuatu

The announcement comes after Vanuatu walked back its commitment to finalise a $500 million infrastructure, climate, and security deal with Australia last week.

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.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he remained confident an agreement would be reached, and that he was “reassured” by his talks with Napat.