Anthony Albanese and PNG
Australia is poised to sign a significant defence agreement with Papua New Guinea, known as the Pukpuk Treaty, pending a quorum from PNG’s cabinet. This comes as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visits Port Moresby for the 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence. The treaty aims to strengthen the military ties between the two nations, ensuring mutual support in the event of an attack.
On September 19, 2023, Albanese announced that while the PNG cabinet convened on Monday night to approve the treaty, some ministers were attending independence celebrations in their electorates, preventing them from reaching a quorum. Albanese expressed optimism that James Marape, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, would facilitate a virtual resolution to finalize the agreement.
Celebrations marking PNG’s independence culminated on Tuesday with a large gathering at Sir John Guise Stadium. The defence pact has garnered bipartisan support in Australia, including endorsement from Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, who stated that the treaty represents a transformation of bilateral relations, paving the way for deeper cooperation over the next fifty years.
The Pukpuk Treaty is expected to closely integrate the defence forces of both nations. Under its provisions, PNG nationals will be able to serve in the Australian Defence Force with equal pay and a pathway to citizenship. PNG Defence Minister Billy Joseph described the treaty as a “mutual defence treaty” that solidifies collaborative efforts to safeguard each other’s territories.
Despite the positive reception in Australia, the agreement may face skepticism from other Pacific nations. Many countries in the region are wary of increased militarization. Critics, including members of the Australian Greens, have raised concerns about the implications of the treaty, questioning the nature of military cooperation in potential conflict scenarios, such as a resurgence of tensions in Bougainville. Defence spokesman David Shoebridge highlighted the need for clarity on Australia’s role should conflicts arise.
Albanese’s approach to foreign policy in the Pacific has included several key initiatives, such as a climate pact with Tuvalu and a migrant agreement with Nauru. He is also negotiating a security treaty with Fiji, one of the few Pacific nations with its own defence force, along with PNG and Tonga. However, Australia has faced challenges in establishing security agreements with the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, both of which maintain closer ties with China.
As a gesture of goodwill to celebrate PNG’s golden jubilee, Australia plans to assist in constructing a new ministerial wing at the PNG parliament, further solidifying the partnership between the two countries. The signing of the Pukpuk Treaty will mark a new chapter in Australia-PNG relations, reinforcing their commitment to mutual support and security in an evolving regional landscape.
