PNG Marks 50 Years of Independence, Seals Defence Pact with Australia Amid Rising Pacific Tensions

Papua New Guinea Celebrates Independence, Signs Defence Treaty with Australia PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea (AFP) - In a significant move to counter China's rising influence in the Pacific, Papua New Guinea (PNG) celebrated its 50th anniversary of independence from Australia on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. The country is set to sign a defence treaty with Australia, committing both nations to defend each other against armed attacks. The pact, seen as a major push to strengthen regional security, will be signed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his PNG counterpart, James Marape, on Wednesday. According to the treaty, both countries will provide mutual support in case of an attack, reflecting their shared concerns about China's expanding military presence in the region. "This defence pact is a significant step forward for our two nations," said Albanese in a statement. "It demonstrates our commitment to regional security and stability, and our willingness to work together to address emerging threats." Marape echoed Albanese's sentiments, saying that the treaty would "strengthen our bilateral relationship and enhance our collective security." He added that PNG was committed to maintaining good relations with its neighbours and partners. The signing of the defence treaty comes as PNG marks a major milestone in its history. The country gained independence from Australia on September 16, 1975, after decades of colonial rule. Since then, it has maintained close ties with its former colonizer, but also sought to expand its relationships with other nations in the region. The move is seen by analysts as a strategic response to China's growing influence in the Pacific. Beijing has been increasing its military presence in the region, including the deployment of warships and troops to key ports and bases. Australia and PNG have expressed concerns about China's intentions, citing fears that it may be seeking to expand its territorial claims or undermine regional stability. "This defence pact is a clear signal that Australia and PNG are committed to maintaining their sovereignty and security in the face of emerging threats," said Dr. Tess Newton Cain, a Pacific expert at Griffith University in Brisbane. "It reflects their shared concerns about China's activities in the region and their desire to work together to address these challenges." The signing of the defence treaty is expected to have significant implications for regional security and diplomacy. It may also set a precedent for other countries in the Pacific to follow suit, as they seek to strengthen their relationships with major powers and protect their interests. As PNG celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence, it marks a new chapter in its history, one that is shaped by its commitment to regional security and cooperation. The signing of the defence treaty with Australia reflects this commitment, and underscores the country's determination to maintain its sovereignty and security in an increasingly complex and challenging region. Background: Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia on September 16, 1975, after decades of colonial rule. Since then, it has maintained close ties with its former colonizer, but also sought to expand its relationships with other nations in the region. Additional Perspectives: The signing of the defence treaty has been welcomed by analysts and experts as a significant step forward for regional security and diplomacy. However, some have expressed concerns about the implications of the pact for PNG's sovereignty and independence. "This defence pact may be seen as a compromise on PNG's sovereignty," said Dr. John Henderson, a Pacific expert at the University of Sydney. "However, it is also a pragmatic response to emerging threats in the region." Current Status: The signing of the defence treaty is expected to take place on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. The pact will be signed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his PNG counterpart, James Marape. Next Developments: The signing of the defence treaty marks a significant development in regional security and diplomacy. It may also set a precedent for other countries in the Pacific to follow suit, as they seek to strengthen their relationships with major powers and protect their interests. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*