Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have formally agreed on a new mutual defence treaty after weeks of delay. The treaty, called the Pukpuk Treaty, strengthens military cooperation and shared security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The signing took place in Port Moresby, where Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and James Marape confirmed the agreement. Both leaders said the treaty would be ratified soon by their respective cabinets.
The Pukpuk Treaty commits both nations to support each other in case of an armed attack. It also promotes joint training, military exchanges, and shared access to defence facilities. The goal is to boost regional security and build stronger defence ties.
The agreement was delayed last month due to procedural issues in PNG’s cabinet. Prime Minister Marape clarified that the delay was not political. He said PNG remains committed to Australia as its “security partner of choice.”
Prime Minister Albanese called the treaty a historic milestone. He said it shows both countries’ shared vision for peace and stability in the Pacific.
This is Australia’s first new defence alliance in over 70 years. It places PNG alongside key allies such as New Zealand and the United States.
Experts say the treaty also strengthens Australia’s position in the Pacific as competition with China grows. It signals a deeper commitment to regional defence partnerships and collective security.
Both nations will now complete legal approvals before the treaty takes effect. Once ratified, the Pukpuk Treaty will guide military cooperation and shape regional security for decades.
