Questions are emerging about the potential signing of a significant defense agreement between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Reports indicate that Papua New Guinea's cabinet has not yet approved the deal, raising doubts about whether it will be finalized as planned.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed these concerns, stating that Australia has "certainly" secured the agreement. He attributed the delay to the absence of ministers from a cabinet meeting, which coincided with the 50th anniversary celebrations of Papua New Guinea's independence. "It will get done," Albanese assured, emphasizing that the deal has strong government support.

Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy, however, was less definitive about the timing of the signing. He noted that the PNG cabinet is still reviewing the agreement. "Today we're focused on celebrating 50 years of PNG independence," Conroy said during an interview. When pressed about his confidence in the deal being signed before the Prime Minister's departure, he expressed optimism but stressed the importance of respecting Papua New Guinea's processes. "We're not like other countries. We don't come in and try and impose our will on the Pacific family," he added.

The proposed defense deal would allow the Australian Defense Force to recruit soldiers from Papua New Guinea and vice versa. The current uncertainty surrounding the agreement comes at a time when both nations are looking to strengthen their defense ties amid regional security concerns.

In related news, the political landscape in Australia is also seeing discussions around climate policy. Nationals Senator Matt Canavan criticized a recent climate report that highlighted the risks of rising sea levels and extreme weather events. He argued that the real threat to farmers is not climate change itself, but the policies aimed at addressing it. "It's a cynical attempt to spread fear and panic among people," Canavan stated, expressing skepticism about the timing of the report's release.

As the government prepares to outline its emissions targets for 2035, Canavan's comments reflect a growing divide within the Coalition regarding climate policy. He noted that many in the party are beginning to question the effectiveness of the net zero emissions target, suggesting that it is not benefiting Australians as promised.

The Coalition is currently reviewing its energy and emissions policies, a process that could take up to nine months. Canavan has been vocal about his belief that continuing with the net zero target would not lead to a positive future for the party. "I don't think it'll be a good future if we continue to do that," he remarked.