Reviving An Old Alliance: Australia and Papua New Guinea Sign Defence Pact

Australia and Papua New Guinea have formalized a critical defence treaty, binding themselves to mutual aid in case of attacks. This longstanding relationship gains a new dimension through provisions allowing up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to join the Australian Defence Force, and vice versa.

With a rich history of cooperation, from WWII to the rise of the Pacific Islands Regiment during Cold War tensions, the new agreement seeks to enhance forces through shared resources and personnel integration. History and effective past collaboration provide valuable insights into improving current and future engagements.

Successful implementation will require deep understanding between forces. Past integration challenges underscore the need for education programs on culture and language. This strategic partnership promises to celebrate diversity and reinforce defense capabilities in the region, reflecting contributions made since the 1940s.

(With inputs from agencies.)