Australia and Papua New Guinea Sign Significant Security Agreement
Australia and Papua New Guinea have formed a significant security partnership, resulting in the deployment of Australian police forces to the Pacific nation
Australia and Papua New Guinea have agreed to a significant security arrangement, which will involve deploying Australian police personnel within the Pacific island nation. During a joint press conference in Canberra with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the deal as a momentous and historic achievement, highlighting the already strong ties between the two nations.
Albanese stated that the agreement will facilitate Australia's assistance in addressing Papua New Guinea's internal security needs and will strengthen the two countries' support for each other's security and regional stability.
The new agreement solidifies Australia's involvement in Papua New Guinea's policing, judiciary, and defense. Australia has committed to providing 200 million Australian dollars ($130 million) to support these initiatives, which includes establishing a training center for police recruits.
The agreement allows Papua New Guinea to sign agreements with other nations while also committing both countries to consult on security threats. Marape noted that Australia established Papua New Guinea's judiciary, public service, and borders before it gained independence 48 years ago.
"Your ongoing support has always been invaluable to us. The events happening beyond your borders have a significant and far-reaching impact on our region," Marape expressed.
He emphasized that the agreement with Australia signifies a strong bond between the two nations, but also stressed that his country maintains a foreign policy of neutrality and being friendly with all.
Following the US security agreement with Papua New Guinea in May, a bilateral security pact was announced between China and the Solomon Islands in 2022, causing concern among the US and its allies about the potential for a Chinese military base in the western Pacific. This prompted a diplomatic effort by Australia in the Pacific.
During the Canberra press conference, Marape addressed questions about China, stating that Papua New Guinea's partnerships with the US and Australia do not come at the cost of its relationships with other countries. Reporting by Reuters.
