PNG Approves Australia War Pact
Papua New Guinea (PNG) has officially approved its long-awaited defence treaty with Australia, after weeks of uncertainty that had delayed the signing of the landmark agreement.
The agreement, widely referred to as the Pukpuk Treaty, was first announced in September, when Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and PNG’s Prime Minister James Marape pledged to elevate bilateral ties. However, the formal signing was postponed when PNG’s cabinet could not meet in time to give approval.
Now, according to The Australian, PNG’s national cabinet has approved the deal with an “absolute majority,” clearing the way for both governments to move forward.
A Historic Defence Alliance
The treaty represents a major milestone for both nations. Australia will now share a formal defence alliance with PNG, placing the partnership on the same level as Australia’s long-standing alliances with the United States and New Zealand.
“This treaty will elevate our relationship with PNG to an alliance – the first in over 70 years and only our third overall,” a government spokesperson said.
The agreement aims to enhance joint defence operations, improve coordination on regional security challenges, and strengthen both countries’ responses to emerging threats in the Pacific.
Geopolitical Importance in the Pacific
The approval comes at a critical time, as the Pacific region becomes a focus of global competition. China has significantly expanded its influence in the region, signing agreements with countries such as the Solomon Islands. Australia and PNG’s closer defence ties are seen as a counterbalance, reaffirming commitments to democratic values and regional stability.
According to the Australian Department of Defence (source), Australia has invested heavily in security partnerships across the Pacific, including maritime patrols, defence training, and infrastructure upgrades. PNG’s approval of this treaty solidifies its role as a cornerstone of Australia’s Pacific security strategy.
Economic and Social Implications
Beyond military cooperation, the treaty is also expected to:
Strengthen trade links and workforce mobility between PNG and Australia.
Increase training programs and infrastructure investments, particularly in PNG’s defence sector.
Encourage stronger people-to-people ties, with cultural and educational exchanges expected to grow.
PNG plays a crucial role as Australia’s closest northern neighbour, sharing deep historical, economic, and cultural ties. During World War II, the Kokoda Track in PNG became a symbol of the two countries’ shared sacrifice—a history that continues to underpin modern cooperation.
Next Steps
Both countries are expected to finalise the treaty in coming weeks, following the necessary legal and parliamentary processes. Once signed, it will:
Provide a framework for joint military exercises and defence infrastructure projects.
Enhance coordination in areas such as cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, and disaster response.
Formalise the alliance in a way that sends a strong signal of unity across the Pacific.
Conclusion
PNG’s approval of the defence pact with Australia is more than just a diplomatic win—it is a strategic move that will shape the security landscape of the Pacific for decades to come. It reinforces Australia’s role as a regional leader, ensures PNG has a stronger security safety net, and signals to the world that alliances in the Pacific remain strong and resilient.
