PRIME Minister James Marape says the Papua New Guinea–Australia Defence Treaty marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, elevating it beyond a traditional bilateral partnership into a broader strategic partnership founded on shared history, democratic values, economic cooperation and collective security.
Speaking at a press conference today after returning from Brisbane, where he attended the Australia–Papua New Guinea Annual Leaders’ Dialogue with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister Marape said the treaty was a landmark achievement initiated by Papua New Guinea and reflected both nations’ commitment to a stronger and more enduring partnership.
“This is not merely a defence arrangement. It is an umbrella agreement that strengthens every aspect of our relationship with Australia,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Australia is no ordinary country to Papua New Guinea. It is our closest neighbour, the country that journeyed with us into nationhood, and a partner with whom we share democratic values, a free-market economy and deep people-to-people ties.
“The signing of this treaty elevates our relationship beyond the traditional bilateral engagement that exists between many countries. Australia is now a strategic partner with whom we are building an even deeper and more comprehensive relationship.”
The Prime Minister said the treaty embraces security cooperation, economic collaboration and stronger people-to-people links.
He described the relationship as “two houses, one fence” — two sovereign nations standing side by side, each maintaining its independence while working together for their mutual benefit.
“Each nation remains fully sovereign. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force answers only to the Government and Commander of Papua New Guinea, while the Australian Defence Force answers to Australia. This treaty does not diminish our sovereignty in any way.
“Instead, it provides a framework for our defence forces to cooperate more closely in training, capability development, joint exercises, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and other areas of mutual interest.”
Prime Minister Marape said the agreement supports Papua New Guinea’s long-term objective of rebuilding and modernising the PNG Defence Force to meet the country’s growing security responsibilities.
“Our country has a vast land mass, a long international border with Indonesia, extensive river systems and one of the
largest maritime jurisdictions in the Pacific. These realities demand a stronger, more capable and better-equipped Defence Force.
“This Government made a deliberate decision to work closely with Australia because of our shared border, our geography, our common security interests and the close ties between our people.”
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to progressively expanding the PNG Defence Force to around 10,000 personnel while investing in modern equipment, infrastructure, training and improved conditions of service.
The Prime Minister stressed that the treaty extends well beyond defence and security.
“It will strengthen people-to-people links, encourage greater business partnerships, facilitate investment and create more opportunities for Papua New Guineans through education, skills development and employment.”
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea would work closely with Australia to ensure qualifications from PNG universities, technical colleges, nursing colleges and vocational institutions increasingly align with Australian standards, enabling more Papua New Guineans to access skilled employment opportunities.
“Australia has significant workforce needs across many
sectors. We want our education system to prepare Papua New Guineans to fill those opportunities, whether in healthcare, engineering, construction, technical trades or other skilled professions.
“The greatest export Papua New Guinea can offer in the future is not only its natural resources but also the skills, knowledge and talents of its people.
“We want more Papua New Guineans working in Australia through recognised skills pathways, while at the same time strengthening our own economy and institutions at home.”
The Prime Minister also acknowledged opportunities for Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force under agreed arrangements while emphasising that his Government remained committed to strengthening the PNG Defence Force so it continues to attract and retain talented young Papua New Guineans.
“We want our Defence Force to remain an institution of pride and professionalism, offering rewarding careers for our young men and women while contributing to regional peace and security.”
Prime Minister Marape said the treaty reflected the maturity of PNG–Australia relations and positioned both countries to meet shared challenges and opportunities together.
“This agreement demonstrates the trust between our two
nations and our shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity. As neighbours, partners and friends, we will continue to work side by side for the benefit of our peoples and our region.”