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The Australian nation will gain access to the Papua New Guinean military facilities and personnel under a freshly signed pact that will ensure the two countries come to each other's defence if one faces aggression.

“Our primary security collaboration is with Australia, a stance that is acknowledged... No other diplomatic ties have been affected,” said PNG's Prime Minister.

This agreement will enable as many as 10,000 nationals of Papua New Guinea to enlist in the nation's armed forces. They will also have the choice to become Australian citizens.

Agreement Specifics

Known as the Pukpuk Treaty (which translates to "this reptile" in local dialect), the mutual pact is the latest in a series of agreements forged by Pacific nations and countries competing for a military influence in the area.

This agreement has the ability to bite and, similar to the crocodile, its bite force speaks of the interoperability and preparation of the armed forces for conflict.

A military assault on either country would be “dangerous to the other's peace and security” so both should “address the collective risk”.

Enhanced Collaboration

The deal also encompassed expanded partnership around digital domains and spectrum operations.

In prior statements, the national security leader said that the deal would mean that the military units of both nations would be “fully combined”.

• Initially, to limit outside power in PNG by ensuring it does not have the same level of access to infrastructure.
• Second, to address the nation's recent difficulties enlisting new personnel.
• In conclusion, the pact also sends a message to other global powers.

The benefits of the treaty were multi-faceted, according to a defence analyst.

“There is a surplus of fit and willing individuals in PNG ready for such roles,” it was explained, stating that many people would be attracted by the possibilities of moving to Australia and perhaps obtaining citizenship.

Area Impact

The treaty forms part of a described as core-and-periphery system of security agreements in the Pacific – with Australia at the centre and Pacific states being the partners.

Questions have emerged that the agreement could weaken the nation's non-aligned international approach by aligning the country with Australia on each safety concern.

Each party need enhanced definition on the foreseen results, responsibilities and pledges.

This agreement also included regular collaborative training which were about “demonstrating capability,” to “demonstrate combined operational readiness and rapid response to regional dangers”.

This treaty would help enhance the defence force, bringing a significant boost in both equipment and esprit de corps.