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Australia will obtain rights to PNG's armed forces bases and troops under a new agreement that will result in each government provide mutual defense if either is under attack.

“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 nation's head of state.

This agreement will enable as many as 10,000 nationals of Papua New Guinea to join Australia's military. They will also have the opportunity to gain permanent residency in Australia.

Treaty Details

Dubbed the Pukpuk Treaty (signifying "the crocodile" in local dialect), the bilateral agreement is the latest in a succession of treaties forged by regional states and powers seeking a security presence in the area.

The pact has the ability to bite and, similar to the crocodile, its bite force highlights the joint capability and readiness of the armed forces for war.

Hostile action on either country would be “dangerous to the other's peace and security” so each must “address the collective risk”.

Expanded Cooperation

The pact also covered greater collaboration around digital domains and spectrum operations.

Previously, the PNG Defence Minister noted that the agreement would mean that Australian and PNG forces would be “completely unified”.

• Initially, to curb external influence in Papua New Guinea by making certain it does not have the equivalent entry to infrastructure.
• Additionally, to tackle the nation's recent struggles recruiting for its military.
• In conclusion, the deal also demonstrates a stance to international actors.

The advantages of the agreement were comprising several aspects, according to a regional security expert.

“Papua New Guinea possesses numerous capable nationals eager for these opportunities,” the expert noted, adding that numerous individuals would be attracted by the possibilities of living in Australia and possibly getting Australian citizenship.

Regional Implications

The deal represents an element in a so-called core-and-periphery system of military treaties in the region – with Australia at the centre and Pacific states being the allies.

There are concerns that the agreement could weaken the nation's non-aligned diplomatic stance by linking the country with Australia on all security matters.

Both sides need enhanced definition on the expectations, responsibilities and assurances.

This agreement also included annual joint military exercises which were about “communicating intent,” to “demonstrate combined operational readiness and rapid response to regional dangers”.

The pact would help enhance the nation's military, bringing a significant boost in both material and confidence.