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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 formalized 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 geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning China’s influence in the Pacific.
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Australia and Turkey remain deadlocked over hosting COP31, with neither side willing to concede. The impasse, ongoing since 2022, threatens to delay the climate summit, which is currently being discussed at COP30 in Brazil. Both countries submitted bids to host the 2026 conference, but disagreements over funding and priorities persist.