Papua New Guinea Approves Pukpuk Treaty with Australia, Strengthening Defence Ties:

In a major step towards closer military cooperation, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has officially approved the Pukpuk Treaty—a landmark mutual defence agreement with Australia. The treaty signals a new era in regional security and deepens the long-standing relationship between the two neighbouring countries. PNG Prime Minister James Marape confirmed on Thursday that his Cabinet had given the green light to the treaty, describing it as a sign of “elevated” ties between PNG and Australia. In a public statement, Marape said, “This reflects the depth of trust, history, and shared future between our two nations.” The Pukpuk Treaty was initially scheduled to be signed in September 2025 to mark PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence. However, a quorum was not reached in Marape’s Cabinet at the time, delaying the signing. Now, with government approval secured, the path is clear for both nations to move forward. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded positively on social media, saying he looked forward to formally signing the agreement and establishing a "formal alliance" with PNG. Key Provisions of the Pukpuk Treaty While the full text of the treaty has not yet been released, several key points have been shared by PNG’s government. One of the most significant elements is the mutual defence clause, which could commit each nation to assist the other in times of conflict or crisis. Other notable features include: Modernising PNG’s military: The treaty will support efforts to upgrade the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), including the development of a national reserve force of 3,000 volunteers. Personnel exchange and training: Up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans will have the opportunity to serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), further strengthening interoperability and defence capability. Expansion of PNG’s military: PNG aims to increase its own military personnel to 7,000 troops as part of the defence reform. A Strategic Move Amid Regional Tensions The Pukpuk Treaty arrives at a time when geopolitical competition in the Pacific is intensifying, especially with growing Chinese influence in the region. Australia, which has long seen itself as a key security partner in the Pacific, has expressed concern over potential Chinese military ambitions, including the risk of a Chinese base being established near its borders. Defence expert Jennifer Parker told Al Jazeera that the treaty could represent a “codification” of existing defence ties between Australia and PNG, but also potentially make PNG Australia’s first treaty-bound ally in 70 years. Australia currently has only two such allies—New Zealand and the United States—under the 1951 ANZUS agreement. Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, highlighted the strategic importance of the deal. “It allows Australia to deepen its investment in Papua New Guinea’s defence sector to meet emerging challenges,” he said. Balancing Relationships with Third Parties Despite its close ties with Australia, PNG is also walking a diplomatic tightrope. The treaty includes language that respects “third-party” defence relationships, which appears to be a reference to China. China is one of PNG’s largest trading partners and a key source of foreign investment. The Chinese embassy in Port Moresby had previously cautioned PNG against joining any defence pact that could limit its sovereignty or cooperation with other countries. In a September statement, China urged PNG to “uphold its independence” and avoid signing treaties that are “exclusive in nature.”

NEWS