PNG and Australia’s defence relationship has come a long way, especially in the past few years. This momentum comes on the heels of the signing of the Pukpuk Treaty, which took place in October. This historic pact binds the two countries to defend each other’s territory in case of an armed invasion. This will be Australia’s third military alliance in history. It’s the first such deal in more than 70 years, since New Zealand joined what became the ANZUS pact with the United States and Australia.
Under the Pukpuk Treaty, Australia will increase Papua New Guinea’s defense capacity. They will help arm and equip local forces and provide them with advanced military training. Furthermore, the treaty paves the way for eased reciprocal recruitment between the two countries’ defence forces. This cooperative approach seeks to strengthen regional security, including responding to escalating fears from neighbouring countries like Indonesia.
Regional Concerns and Responses
Indonesia’s concerns preceded the Pukpuk Treaty announcement, with the country actively sharing its concerns about growing geopolitical competition in the region. An unnamed spokesperson from Indonesia’s foreign ministry told The Diplomat frankly that no new treaty should heighten “geopolitical rivalry” in the region. The spokesperson emphasized Indonesia’s appreciation for all countries to build their own defense systems. At the same time, they were clear about the need for transparency from these innovations.
An Indonesian government source said that distrust over the treaty still remained. Australia’s work to explain its intentions has largely quelled many of those concerns. The outlet praised Australia’s proactive approach in dealing with a mountain of problems concerning the Pukpuk Treaty.
“Indonesia also expects Australia and PNG to consistently uphold transparency in the process of forming this cooperation agreement, as well as to honour their commitment to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of neighbouring countries, including Indonesia,” – Indonesia’s foreign ministry spokesperson.
Papua New Guinea’s Defence Minister, Billy Joseph, has recognized the importance of addressing Indonesia’s concerns while acknowledging PNG’s own worries about its border with Indonesia.
“We pretty much respect whatever happens within Indonesian territory to be an internal Indonesian matter,” – Dr. Joseph.
He stressed that escalating tensions in occupied West Papua have the potential to overflow into the realm of Papua New Guinea. This development makes continued vigilance and caution on both sides of the border even more imperative.
Establishing a Buffer Zone
Against this backdrop of policy discussion and advocacy, Papua New Guinea has put forward the idea of a 10-kilometre no go zone along its land border with Indonesia. This planned “no-man’s land” would be devoid of any military installations, meant to ease military pressures and tensions across the parallel. Dr. Joseph doubled down, stating that this newly reestablished initiative is evidence of PNG’s dedication to upholding peace and stability in the region.
“That’s the sort of close collaboration we want to see,” – Dr. Joseph.
The Defence Minister further acknowledged Indonesia’s sovereignty concerns as entirely legitimate, during negotiations of the Pukpuk Treaty. He further added that PNG is focused on establishing a collaborative culture with its adjacent neighbor. He thinks that both countries have to work together to make sure they are both secure.
“They have raised a few concerns, especially with regards to their sovereignty,” – Dr. Joseph.
Both Papua New Guinea and Australia are firmly committed to strengthening relations with Indonesia too. In November, Australian PM Anthony Albanese and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto jointly declared a key milestone. They released a strategic defense agreement aimed at deepening cooperation between Australia and Indonesia.
Future Collaborations
The inaugural trilateral meeting of defence ministers from PNG, Australia and Indonesia is due to be held soon in Port Moresby. This meeting will feature Dr. Joseph alongside Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles and Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. Our goal is to create a recurring conversation each year. These discussions should aim to establish confidence and pursue greater military-to-military engagement once the Pukpuk Treaty is signed.
Indonesian regional chapter speaker Agus Subiyanto, a provincial official from Central Java, underscored the urgency of solidarity among regional partners.
“Indonesia and Australia stand side-by-side in maintaining stability, security and peace across the Indo-Pacific region,” – Agus Subiyanto.
These countries are finding their way with their new and ever-evolving relationships. Working together through continuous dialogue will be key in alleviating fears, respecting each other’s sovereignty, and seeking stability in the region.
