Australia and PNG Forge Historic Mutual Defence Pact
Australia and Papua New Guinea have agreed to strengthen security ties through a landmark defence pact. On Wednesday, leaders from both nations signed a Joint Communiqué to advance a Mutual Defence Treaty, widely referred to as the Pukpuk Treaty.
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| Australia and PNG Forge Historic Mutual Defence Pact |
The agreement outlines a mutual defence alliance, recognising that any armed attack on either Australia or PNG would pose a threat to the peace and stability of both countries. Officials said the pact reflects the two neighbours’ shared commitment to regional security and cooperation.
According to the communiqué, the treaty will also deepen defence relations by creating opportunities for Papua New Guineans to join the Australian Defence Force through a formal recruitment pathway. This initiative aims to modernise and expand PNG’s defence capabilities while strengthening people-to-people links.
Australian and PNG leaders highlighted that the Pukpuk Treaty will build on decades of security collaboration and is a step forward in safeguarding the Pacific region. The arrangement underscores the importance of collective responses to emerging security challenges.
The treaty itself will be formally signed after cabinet approvals in both Port Moresby and Canberra. Officials said the legal and administrative processes are expected to be completed in the coming months.
Once endorsed, the Mutual Defence Treaty will mark a historic moment for Australia-PNG relations, signalling a renewed partnership grounded in mutual trust and shared strategic interests.
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