Australia and Papua New Guinea Sign Historic Defense Pact Amidst Growing Pacific Security Concerns
Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have solidified their long-standing alliance by signing a key defense agreement, known as the Pukpuk Defence Treaty. This landmark pact, the first of its kind in over 70 years, aims to bolster regional security and address concerns about growing influence in the Pacific, particularly from China.
Key Provisions of the Pukpuk Defence Treaty
The Pukpuk Treaty, named after the Tok Pisin word for "crocodile," signifies a commitment from both nations to assist each other in the event of an attack. According to the treaty, an armed attack on either country would be "dangerous to the other's peace and security", so both should "act to meet the common danger". The agreement also covers increased collaboration in areas such as cyberspace and electromagnetic warfare. Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and James Marape signed the agreement in Canberra.
- Mutual Defense: Both nations commit to aiding each other in the event of an attack.
- Military Access: Australia gains access to PNG’s military facilities and troops.
- PNG Personnel in ADF: Up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans will be able to serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), with the option of Australian citizenship.
- Integrated Forces: Australian and PNG forces will be "totally integrated".
Geopolitical Implications and China's Influence
Experts suggest that the defense pact is also aimed at countering China's growing influence in the region. The deal ensures China will not have the same access to infrastructure in PNG as it does in other Pacific Islands, said Oliver Nobetau, project director of the Lowy Institute's Australia-PNG network. China has been significantly increasing its trade and diplomatic presence in the Pacific, leading to concerns from Australia and its allies, including the United States.
Statements from Leaders and Experts
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that both sides agreed not to undertake activities that could "compromise the implementation of this treaty". PNG Prime Minister Marape stated that the treaty was born out of shared geography and history, not geopolitics. However, he also affirmed that PNG would maintain diplomatic and trade relations with China. Anna Powles, associate professor in security studies at Massey University in New Zealand, said the deal would help modernise PNG's army, bringing a significant boost in both material and morale terms, while also questioning how it fits with the country's "friends to all, enemies to none" foreign policy position.
Broader Regional Context
The Australia-PNG defense pact is part of a broader effort by Australia to strengthen its security relationships in the Pacific. Canberra recently invested in the Solomon Islands police force and has similar agreements in place with Tuvalu. Australia also signed a security and business deal with Vanuatu, focusing on data centers, security strengthening, and climate change adaptation.
