The signing of a new defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea will mark one of the most significant moments in the history of the bilateral relationship since PNG’s independence 50 years ago this week.
The treaty, to be signed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his counterpart James Marape in PNG, is expected to provide for closer military integration, mutual consultation on security threats, and a large-scale Australian investment in modernising the PNG Defence Force.
It will also set the framework for Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force on equal terms with Australian soldiers.