Historic Defence Treaty Unites Australia and Papua New Guinea Amidst Chinese Concerns
Australia and Papua New Guinea signed a groundbreaking bilateral defense treaty, marking a historic alliance that mirrors ANZUS Treaty obligations. While China views it as exclusionary, leaders stress the treaty's goal of strengthening regional security without targeting third parties. It fortifies Papua New Guinea's defense ties with Australia as a preferred ally.
- Country:
- Australia
In a landmark event, Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed a significant bilateral defense treaty, drawing concerns from China over its perceived exclusionary nature. On Monday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape described the agreement as a monumental step towards stronger defense integration between the two nations.
Albanese highlighted that the treaty embodies mutual defense obligations comparable to the historic ANZUS Treaty commitments, pledging joint response in case of armed attacks on either country. This alliance-level security pact is Australia's first since ANZUS and Papua New Guinea's inaugural such agreement, indicating a new chapter in their bilateral relations.
Despite Chinese apprehensions, Marape assured that the treaty does not erode Papua New Guinea's diplomatic stance of 'friends to all, enemy to none.' He stressed that the growing military ties with Australia aim to fortify relationships, not create adversaries, amidst increased regional geopolitical dynamics involving China in the South Pacific.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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