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Australia will gain access to the Papua New Guinean defence infrastructure and personnel under a recently concluded deal that will result in both nations provide mutual defense if an armed conflict occurs.

“Our primary security collaboration is with Australia, a stance that is acknowledged... No other diplomatic ties have been affected,” said PNG's Prime Minister.

The security treaty will allow a maximum of 10,000 PNG citizens to serve in the Australian Defence Force. They will also have the option to obtain Australian citizenship.

Treaty Details

Referred to as the Pukpuk Treaty (which translates to "this reptile" in local dialect), the bilateral agreement is the latest in a succession of treaties struck between regional states and countries seeking a military influence in the region.

The treaty possesses significant force and, in the manner of this predator, its impact demonstrates the interoperability and preparation of the defence units for conflict.

Hostile action on one of the nations would be “a risk to mutual safety” so both should “respond to the shared threat”.

Enhanced Collaboration

The pact also included enhanced cooperation around online security and electromagnetic warfare.

Earlier, the defence official from Papua New Guinea said that the agreement would mean that Australian and PNG forces would be “completely unified”.

• Initially, to limit external influence in PNG by ensuring it does not have the equivalent entry to facilities.
• Additionally, to resolve the nation's recent difficulties enlisting new personnel.
• Finally, the deal also demonstrates a stance to other global powers.

The benefits of the agreement were multi-faceted, per analysis from a Pacific affairs specialist.

“There is a surplus of fit and willing individuals in PNG ready for such roles,” the expert noted, noting that numerous individuals would be attracted by the possibilities of residing in the country and perhaps obtaining citizenship.

Regional Implications

This agreement forms part of a described as hub and spokes network of military treaties in the Pacific – with the nation at the core and island nations being the partners.

There are concerns that the treaty could weaken the nation's non-aligned international approach by associating PNG with its partner on every defence issue.

Both sides need more precise understanding on the foreseen results, responsibilities and pledges.

The deal also included regular collaborative training which were about “demonstrating capability,” to “demonstrate combined operational readiness and rapid response to regional dangers”.

The pact would help update the defence force, bringing a major uplift in both resources and morale.