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Anthony Albanese's approach of countering Chinese expansion in the Pacific Islands has been dealt another blow, with a major defence treaty with Papua New Guinea delayed due to national autonomy issues.

Treaty Signing Postponed Amid Autonomy Negotiations

An agreement was anticipated to be signed this week, but the Australian leader is leaving Port Moresby without concluding the so-called Pukpuk defence treaty with his PNG Prime Minister, James Marape.

The Australian PM downplayed the postponement, suggesting that government discussions were interrupted by celebrations of PNG's independence anniversary. In place of a treaty, the two nations signed a shared statement and pledged to proceed with negotiations on the broader defence pact.

Second Setback in As Many Weeks

It is the second postponement in as many weeks for the Australian government. Earlier this month's regional summit, Vanuatu's government paused the signing of a bilateral deal with Australia, stating that further discussions was needed on critical minerals funding from China.

Main Components of the Planned Agreement

The PNG deal is expected to establish shared security measures in the event of a military attack, and would allow nationals of both nations to enlist in the military of the partner nation.

• Combined military drills
• Improved equipment compatibility
• Collaborative efforts on cybersecurity preparedness

Negotiation Context and Future Expectations

Albanese has also promoted a arrangement for PNG to join the NRL in 2028, which acts as a major diplomatic sweetener within the wider $600m partnership. He emphasized that there was no delay to the PNG team joining the league.

Addressing media at a press conference in Port Moresby, the Australian leader stated that the wording of the security treaty had been agreed upon, but both sides required further discussion to finalize their respective cabinet processes.

"It is very positive. There is no downside in this at all. This is all upside for Australia and for Papua New Guinea."

View from Papua New Guinea

The PNG Prime Minister noted that PNG's defence capability was not sufficient to protect the nation and its people, making shared security settings with Australia essential.

He emphasized that the new treaty was initiated by Papua New Guinea, not from Australia, and that it would not compromise PNG's sovereignty.

"A security treaty for Papua New Guinea would be the most significant level of secure relations we have given to any country."

Response from Opponitions

Opposition representative Jane Hume called the postponement as "a significant setback for the PM", stating that it is "crucial that these agreements are handled appropriately and with a guarantee that they will be finalized."

Broader Implications

China has used infrastructure funding and loan agreements to build influence with Pacific Island countries, challenging Australia's relationships with the region and testing the nation's diplomatic reach.

Labor maintains that the two treaties can yet be finalized in the next few months.