Papua New Guinea and Australia have officially signed a significant defense treaty known as the "Pukpuk" agreement, marking a new level of alliance between the two nations. The treaty was signed by Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and James Marape in Canberra shortly before noon on Monday. This agreement comes less than three weeks after a previous attempt to finalize it in Port Moresby, which occurred just after Papua New Guinea celebrated its 50th independence anniversary.

The treaty includes mutual defense provisions, stating that an armed attack on either country within the Pacific would pose a threat to both nations' peace and security. The agreement emphasizes that both countries will work together to address any common dangers, following their respective constitutional processes. Albanese described the day as historic, noting that the mutual defense provisions are similar to those in the long-standing ANZUS treaty involving Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. He remarked, "This is Australia's first new alliance in more than 70 years," and expressed pride in having Papua New Guinea as a new ally.

Marape highlighted that the treaty is not driven by geopolitical factors but rather by shared geography, history, and the realities of their neighborhood. He likened the agreement to building a larger fence that secures two homes with their own spaces. The Australian government views this treaty as a strategic win, reinforcing its role as Papua New Guinea's primary defense partner and complicating China's efforts to strengthen defense ties with Port Moresby.

The treaty includes a commitment from both nations to refrain from engaging in activities with third parties that could undermine the treaty's objectives. This provision is seen as a measure to limit China's defense engagement with Papua New Guinea. In response, China has cautioned Papua New Guinea against signing any agreements that might restrict its independence or cooperation with other countries.

Marape stated that he has been open with China regarding the treaty and emphasized his desire to maintain strong relations with Beijing. He clarified that the agreement is not intended to exclude any nation and expressed his commitment to not creating adversaries. He remarked, "A conscious choice that Australia will be our security partner of choice … I will never live to regret this choice I made."

Additionally, the treaty commits Australia to assist Papua New Guinea in modernizing its defense forces. It outlines a framework for ongoing cooperation to enhance both countries' capabilities to protect their sovereignty and respond to external threats. The agreement also opens opportunities for some Papua New Guinea citizens to join the Australian Defence Force starting in January. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of their nations' defense collaboration and the benefits it will bring to their respective security landscapes.