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The Australian nation will obtain rights to the Papua New Guinean defence infrastructure and troops under a recently concluded agreement that will result in the two countries come to each other's defence if one faces aggression.

“We have told them that Australia is our security partner of choice and they understand our alliances here... Other aspects of our relations have never been compromised,” stated the Papua New Guinea leader.

This agreement will allow as many as 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in the nation's armed forces. They will also have the choice to obtain Australian citizenship.

Treaty Details

Referred to as the Pukpuk Treaty (meaning "crocodile" in Papua New Guinean pidgin), the two-nation deal is the most recent in a succession of treaties struck between countries in the Pacific and powers vying for a military influence in the area.

The pact can deliver a strong response and, similar to the crocodile, its bite force demonstrates the joint capability and preparedness of the defence units for conflict.

A military assault on any signatory would be “a risk to mutual safety” so the two are to “act to meet the common danger”.

Deeper Partnership

This agreement also covered greater collaboration around digital domains and electromagnetic warfare.

In prior statements, the PNG Defence Minister noted that the treaty would mean that defence personnel from each country would be “totally integrated”.

• Initially, to curb outside power in the nation by making certain it does not have the comparable reach to resources.
• Second, to resolve the nation's recent challenges enlisting new personnel.
• In conclusion, the deal also demonstrates a stance to other global powers.

The positive outcomes of the deal were comprising several aspects, per analysis from a defence analyst.

“Papua New Guinea possesses numerous capable nationals eager for these opportunities,” the expert noted, stating that numerous individuals would be attracted by the possibilities of residing in the country and perhaps obtaining citizenship.

Area Impact

This agreement represents an element in a so-called hub and spokes network of defence pacts in the area – with Australia at the centre and island nations being the spokes.

Questions have emerged that the treaty may compromise PNG's inclusive and neutral foreign policy position by linking the country with its partner on each safety concern.

Both sides need enhanced definition on the anticipated outcomes, duties and commitments.

The deal also included regular collaborative training which were about “communicating intent,” to “highlight joint defence capacity and swift mobilization against outside risks”.

This treaty would help enhance the defence force, bringing a significant boost in both resources and confidence.