A long-anticipated defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea failed to cross the finish line today, with both nations instead signing a communique in place of the formal agreement.
The setback is seen as a significant blow for Canberra, which had hoped to secure the high-level pact this week.
The mutual defence treaty would commit Australia and Papua New Guinea to defend each other in the event of a military attack. However, Papua New Guinea’s cabinet has yet to approve the deal. Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko told ABC News that cabinet approval remained a “work in progress,” noting the treaty had already been circulated among ministers for review.
Tkatchenko added that Papua New Guinea’s national cabinet will meet next week to discuss the agreement. The delay could create diplomatic pressure and undermine Australia’s expectations for strengthened strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, especially amid heightened geopolitical tensions. Despite the disappointment, the signing of the communique signals that both nations remain committed to deepening their partnership while awaiting final approval.
