Australia and PNG Forge Historic Mutual Defence Pact

Retired Major-General Jerry Singirok has raised concerns that the proposed Pukpuk Mutual Defence Treaty between Papua New Guinea and Australia may prioritize Canberra’s interests over PNG’s own strategic needs.

Singirok described the treaty as a potential threat to national sovereignty, saying it was designed to further Australia’s agenda. “PNG is not for sale,” he emphasized.

 Singirok: Pukpuk Treaty Serves Australian Interest, Not PNG’s Strategic Needs

He highlighted that the PNG Constitution does not provide for integration with foreign military forces, making any alignment with the Australian Defence Force legally questionable.

Singirok warned that embedding PNGDF personnel within Australian forces or adopting Australian military doctrines could undermine national sovereignty, violate PNG’s non-alignment policy, and bypass parliamentary scrutiny if the treaty is not properly debated.

“If the treaty is signed without constitutional amendments and broad public consultation, it could face legal challenges or trigger political backlash,” he said.

While the treaty promises interoperability, joint logistics, and pathways for PNG citizens to join the ADF, Singirok cautioned that it could entangle PNG in conflicts serving Australia’s alliances, compromise its neutral foreign policy, and strain relations with China.

He added that Australia may offer economic incentives, security assurances, and diplomatic appeals to encourage PNG’s cabinet to sign. However, without public trust and legal safeguards, he warned, the treaty could stall or later unravel if signed under pressure.

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Australia and PNG Forge Historic Mutual Defence Pact