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Anthony Albanese's strategy of countering China's influence in the Pacific region has been dealt another blow, with a major defence treaty with Papua New Guinea postponed due to national autonomy issues.

Treaty Signing Delayed Amid Autonomy Negotiations

An agreement was anticipated to be signed this week, but the prime minister is set to depart Port Moresby without concluding the mutual defence treaty with his PNG Prime Minister, James Marape.

The Australian PM minimized the delay, suggesting that cabinet deliberations were interrupted by celebrations of PNG's independence anniversary. In place of a treaty, the two governments signed a shared statement and pledged to continue negotiations on the broader defence agreement.

Another Delay in Recent Weeks

It is the second postponement in recent weeks for the Australian government. Earlier this month's regional summit, Vanuatu's government paused the signing of a joint agreement with Australia, stating that more work was needed on resource investment from China.

Key Elements of the Planned Agreement

The PNG deal is intended to establish joint defence arrangements in the event of a security threat, and would allow citizens of both countries to enlist in the military of the other.

• Combined military drills
• Enhanced technical interoperability
• Collaborative efforts on cybersecurity preparedness

Diplomatic Efforts and Next Steps

The Prime Minister has also promoted a arrangement for PNG to join the National Rugby League in 2028, which serves as a significant incentive within the wider $600m agreement. He emphasized that there was no delay to the PNG team joining the league.

Speaking at a media briefing in Port Moresby, the Australian leader said that the wording of the defence agreement had been agreed upon, but both sides required further discussion to complete their internal approvals.

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

PNG's Perspective

The PNG Prime Minister stated that the country's military capacity was inadequate to protect the nation and its population, making joint defence arrangements with Australia necessary.

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

"This defence pact for Papua New Guinea would be the highest in terms of secure relations we have given to any country."

Political Reactions

The Liberal senator Jane Hume called the postponement as "a significant setback for the PM", stating that it is "crucial that these deals are handled correctly and with a guarantee that they will be finalized."

Broader Implications

The Chinese government has used infrastructure funding and financial partnerships to build influence with Pacific Island countries, undercutting Australia's relationships with the region and testing the country's foreign policy efforts.

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