Papua New Guinea and Australia are looking forward to the Pukpuk Treaty coming into force soon, with both countries having completed their domestic processes.
Speaking at a press conference in Adelaide, Australia, on June 17, Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong thanked the PNG Government for proposing the treaty and said Australia is eager to see it implemented.
“I want to emphasize, it’s an alliance that is about more than defence,” Ms. Wong said. “It deepens cooperation in health, education, infrastructure, and trade — all of which are about our two countries working together for peace, stability, and prosperity in our region.”
PNG Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations, noting that PNG is not only an ally but a partner with deep historical ties.
He said PNG looks forward to the treaty’s final implementation in the coming weeks when Prime Ministers James Marape and Anthony Albanese meet in Sydney.
“This treaty strengthens our security, enhances our social well-being, and ensures that Australia and Papua New Guinea will be closer than ever before, supporting each other in these challenging times,” Mr. Tkatchenko said.
He added that the pact reflects mutual responsibility, with PNG recognizing Australia’s security concerns as shared priorities. “We’re going to have thousands of Papua New Guineans entering the Australian Defence Force over the next 10 years to assist in strengthening this partnership,” he said.
Mr. Tkatchenko emphasized that both governments are committed to advancing peace and security across the Pacific region, not only for Australia and PNG but for all Pacific Island countries.