Overview

• The Pukpuk treaty commits Australia and Papua New Guinea to come to each other's aid if either faces an armed attack.
• The agreement would allow as many as 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve with the Australian Defence Force under dual arrangements, with reciprocal service also enabled.
• Treaty language says third‑party activities or agreements must not compromise implementation, a provision widely viewed in the context of rising Chinese influence in the Pacific.
• The planned September signing was delayed after PNG's cabinet failed to reach a quorum during independence celebrations, which Prime Minister James Marape said reflected domestic processes rather than outside interference.
• Officials say the text was settled last month and the formal signing is expected soon, with the deal now proceeding to parliamentary ratification in both nations.