Australia, Papua New Guinea Delay Mutual Defence Treaty

Source: International Business Times

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape speaks during a flag-raising ceremony marking the country's 50th independence anniversary in Port Moresby on September 16 AFP Australia and Papua New Guinea failed to sign a long-awaited mutual defence treaty as expected on Wednesday, as Canberra seeks to deepen ties with Pacific nations and counter Beijing's rising influence. The deal -- known as the Pukpuk treaty -- was set to see the two nations commit to defending each other from armed attacks as they face "emerging threats" to their security, according to a copy seen by AFP. It was widely expected to be signed by leaders Anthony Albanese and James Marape on Wednesday in Port Moresby.