Papua New Guinea, Australia Will Commit To Mutual Defence

Australia and Papua New Guinea are facing "emerging threats to their national interests and regional security", the treaty says (Credit: AFP)

A new defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea commits to defending each other if they are attacked in the face of "emerging threats", a copy of the deal seen by AFP on Tuesday showed.

The pact -- seen as an attempt to counter Beijing's rising Pacific influence -- is expected to be signed by leaders Anthony Albanese and James Marape on Wednesday in Port Moresby.