Prime Minister James Marape is set to sign the landmark PNG–Australia Security Treaty today in Canberra, following approval by the National Executive Council last week.
This important step marks a deepening of our national security, economic prospects, and regional cooperation.
The Treaty ushers in a new chapter in the longstanding PNG–Australia partnership. It goes far beyond traditional defence, opening pathways for collaboration in areas essential to Papua New Guinea’s future.
Key Benefits of the Treaty for PNG:
- Enhanced Security & Law Enforcement
- Formal mutual defence obligations if one party is attacked, the other may act in response subject to parliamentry endorsement as prescribed by the Constitution
- Greater cooperation in border protection, policing, and intelligence coordination for interoperability but under their respective commands without compromising sovereignty.
- Clean Energy & Infrastructure Development
- Potential investments aligned with PNG’s energy transition goals
- Infrastructure support as part of the wider security-development nexus
- Education & Employment Pathways
- Expanded training, scholarship, and workforce opportunities for PNG citizens, including pathways to serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) under dual arrangements
- Regional Leadership
- Reinforcing PNG’s role as a reliable security partner in the Pacific
- Strengthening collective regional stability and promoting peace across Oceania
Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Treaty “reflects the deep friendship and mutual trust that our two nations share. It is about growing together in peace, prosperity, and mutual respect as we chart the next 50 years of partnership.”
This Treaty is a strategic victory for Papua New Guinea laying the foundation for a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation for future generations. It reinforces PNG’s standing in the Pacific as a partner of trust and a nation with influence.
Prime Minister Marape is expected to return to Port Moresby on Monday evening. Once back, he will brief the public on the full details and significance of the agreement.
Important Next Steps:
- The signing of the document signifies the agreement of both leaders to the text.
- The Treaty must then be taken through parliamentary ratification in both PNG and Australia before it becomes legally binding.
The Australian Government is expected to directly recruit its defense personnel from PNG, which is a big win for PNG where the officers will have the option to become duel citizens.