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As of September 17, 2025, Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed a defence communique but postponed the formal signing of a landmark mutual defence treaty. The treaty, elevating their security ties to the level Australia holds with the US and New Zealand, awaits cabinet approvals in both countries. The pact integrates defence forces, allows military service across borders, and offers PNG nationals a pathway to Australian citizenship, amid efforts to counter China's growing Pacific influence.
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Papua New Guinea and Australia announced a delay in signing a proposed security treaty, citing cabinet processes. The treaty, meant to formalize a mutual defense pact, was initially expected to be signed during PNG's independence anniversary but is now pending approval in both countries. The delay highlights regional security complexities amid Chinese influence concerns.
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On October 6, 2025, Australia and Papua New Guinea signed the Pukpuk Treaty, their first mutual defense pact in 70 years, elevating their relationship to a formal alliance. The treaty commits both nations to mutual defense, integrates their militaries, and allows PNG citizens to serve in the Australian Defence Force. The pact aims to strengthen regional security amid rising Chinese influence in the Pacific.
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On November 22, 2025, Australia and Turkey resolved a multi-year dispute over hosting the 2026 UN climate summit, COP31. Turkey will host the summit in Antalya, while Australia will preside over negotiations and lead pre-COP events focused on Pacific climate financing. The deal ends a deadlock that risked defaulting the summit to Germany and drew criticism from Pacific nations.