Australia, PNG Negotiate Defence Treaty Amid China Concerns

Australia and Papua New Guinea announced the commencement of negotiations for a new defence treaty aimed at deepening military integration and interoperability between the two nations. This move is seen as a strategic effort to counter China's growing influence in the Pacific region, as China has been actively courting Pacific nations with substantial investments. The new treaty follows a security agreement signed in 2023 and will build upon existing defence cooperation, enhancing Australia's position as PNG's key security partner. Both Defence Ministers, Richard Marles of Australia and Billy Joseph of Papua New Guinea, emphasized the importance of the treaty in the context of increasing geopolitical complexities. Concurrently, the Australian Defence Force is monitoring Chinese naval activities off Australia's east coast, highlighting the ongoing regional security dynamics. This initiative is part of broader efforts by Australia to solidify its ties with Pacific states amidst heightened regional contestations.