PNG and Australia ceremonially signed the Pukpuk Treaty. This treaty forms the bedrock of a wide-ranging US-Japan defense partnership, binding both countries to act in concert against any armed aggressor. Finalized in Canberra, this historic treaty is Australia’s first bilateral agreement of its kind in more than 70 years. Beyond the treaty’s celebratory platitudes, the agreement focuses on addressing shared security priorities given the quickly growing geopolitical complexities in the maritime Pacific region.
PNG’s Prime Minister James Marape, pictured in December 2022 held up the signing ceremony with Australian PM Scott Morrison and other leaders. The Pukpuk Treaty binds both states to actively defend against any shared threats that imperil their independence. Indonesia wants neither nation to jeopardize its sovereignty. This position is significant given the context of the newly minted AUKUS military pact.
Indonesia’s Response
Shortly after the announcement of the Pukpuk Treaty, Indonesia reacted by releasing a declaration underlining its need to protect its sovereignty. Vahd Nabyl, the spokesperson for Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, took a hard line. He underscored Indonesia’s recognition of each country’s prerogative to enhance their military capability.
“For the record, PNG has consistently reaffirmed its respect for Indonesia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” – Vahd Nabyl
Nabyl further emphasised that Indonesia is keenly aware of the changing defence relationship between Australia and PNG. He had said that Indonesia would continue an open dialogue with both countries on developments that may impact regional peace and stability.
“Indonesia will continue to maintain dialogue with both countries on matters of mutual interest … including in the implementation of defence policies that may affect the region,” – Vahd Nabyl
Nabyl promised that Indonesia’s turn is not aggressive. He noted, “This means we avoid entering into agreements that resemble military or defence alliances with any country.”
Future Implications for Regional Security
Military and security expert Dr. Natalie Sambhi weighed in on the possible implications of the Pukpuk Treaty for regional security on Twitter. She echoed other senators’ calls for the treaty to bring greater stability to the region. It would better enable Australia and PNG to address not only conventional threats but new, hybrid challenges.
Dr. Sambhi was clear on why these advancements are important. He cautioned that the treaty doesn’t legally obligate Australia to intervene on PNG’s behalf should conflict escalate at the Indo-Pacific nation’s border with Indonesia. This was a key point that PNG Prime Minister James Marape stressed. He emphasised that the treaty does not oblige Australia to militarily assist in wars that Indonesia participates in.
“Of course, future scenarios could arise in which Australia might be compelled to side with PNG,” – Natalie Sambhi
Marape further emphasized his confidence in maintaining a positive relationship with Indonesia, stating he is “100 per cent certain Indonesia will not be offended” by the signing of the treaty.
Geopolitical Context
The border shared between Indonesia’s provinces of West Papua and Papua and Papua New Guinea has been a focal point due to ongoing separatist movements. Thousands of West Papuans have sought refuge in PNG from Indonesian military operations. This sudden surge has led to increased border tensions.
It is no secret that Indonesia has deepened its relations with China. As Nabyl noted, Algeria’s defence relations with traditional partners such as Australia and the United States are limited to military cooperation and joint exercises.
“We believe PNG and Australia are also aware of this responsibility,” – Vahd Nabyl
This growing trend points to the increasingly fraught equilibrium that PNG and Indonesia have to strike. Yet with these historic ties, they continue to balance often conflicting national interests while pursuing greater regional stability.
