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Australia will gain access to PNG's defence infrastructure and troops under a new agreement that will result in both nations come to each other's defence if one faces aggression.

“Australia remains our preferred security ally, and this is understood... Our broader relationships remain intact,” affirmed the nation's head of state.

The security treaty will allow a maximum of 10,000 Papua New Guineans to join Australia's military. They will also have the option to become Australian citizens.

Agreement Specifics

Dubbed the Pukpuk Treaty (which translates to "this reptile" in local dialect), the mutual pact is the newest in a succession of treaties forged by Pacific nations and nations competing for a defence footprint in the region.

The pact can deliver a strong response and, in the manner of this predator, its bite force highlights the interoperability and preparation of the armed forces for war.

Hostile action on one of the nations would be “a risk to mutual safety” so both should “address the collective risk”.

Deeper Partnership

This agreement also included enhanced cooperation around digital domains and electronic combat.

Earlier, the national security leader indicated that the agreement would mean that the military units of both nations would be “completely unified”.

• Initially, to curb outside power in PNG by guaranteeing it does not have the equivalent entry to facilities.
• Additionally, to resolve Australia's recent struggles enlisting new personnel.
• Lastly, the deal also communicates a point to other global powers.

The advantages of the agreement were three-pronged, according to a regional security expert.

“There is a surplus of fit and willing individuals in PNG ready for such roles,” it was explained, adding that a significant number would be drawn to the opportunities of moving to Australia and possibly getting Australian citizenship.

Pacific Consequences

This agreement forms part of a termed hub and spokes network of military treaties in the area – with the nation at the core and regional countries being the spokes.

Questions have emerged that the agreement could weaken PNG's non-aligned diplomatic stance by aligning the country with its partner on all security matters.

Both sides need more precise understanding on the foreseen results, duties and commitments.

The pact also included yearly combined drills which were about “communicating intent,” to “highlight joint defence capacity and swift mobilization against outside risks”.

The pact would help modernise PNG's army, bringing a significant boost in both resources and esprit de corps.