Australia and PNG Sign Historic Defence Pact, What It Means for Regional Security

Albanese calls PNG Australia’s ‘newest ally’ as Marape pledges unwavering trust in partnership.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape sign a defense treaty at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Oct. 6, 2025. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have formally signed the long-awaited Pukpuk Treaty in Canberra on Oct. 6, cementing the two nations as formal allies.

The agreement, signed in the presence of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, PNG Prime Minister James Marape, and Defence Minister Richard Marles, comes two weeks after the original ceremony was delayed amid internal confusion in Port Moresby and threats from Beijing.