Landmark Defence Treaty Strengthens Australia-Papua New Guinea Alliance

Papua New Guinea's cabinet has given the green light to a significant defence treaty with Australia, as announced by Prime Minister James Marape on Thursday. This move is part of Canberra's strategic efforts to deter Chinese expansion in the Pacific region.

Named the Pukpuk defence treaty, the agreement mandates Australia and Papua New Guinea to offer mutual assistance in case of an attack. In addition, it allows up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force under dual arrangements, pending ratification by both nations' parliaments.

This treaty was initially slated for approval during Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to Port Moresby for PNG's 50th independence anniversary but faced delays due to procedural issues within PNG's cabinet. Meanwhile, Australia is using these defence deals to limit Chinese influence, following China's recent agreement with the Solomon Islands.

(With inputs from agencies.)