Australia and Papua New Guinea Forge Historic Security Pact Amid China's Pacific Policing Expansion

Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed a bilateral security agreement, strengthening their close ties. The agreement includes assistance for PNG's police and support for its legal system. It comes after PNG signed a defense deal with the United States in May. The agreement aims to enhance PNG's capabilities and contribute to Pacific-led regional security and stability. It covers various areas such as training, resources for judges, tackling gender-based violence, climate change, cyber security, and disaster relief. The agreement comes amid growing rivalry between the US and China in the Asia Pacific, with China increasing its security presence in the Pacific Islands.