News
September 17, 2025
'Crocodile' defence pact ready to be signed in PNG
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hopes his PNG counterpart James Marape can round up his cabinet ministers to approve a landmark defence pact for sign-off.
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea - A significant defence agreement, dubbed the "Crocodile" pact, is on the cusp of being signed between Australia and Papua New Guinea, signaling a deepening of security ties between the two nations. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is currently in PNG, eager to finalize the landmark agreement with his counterpart, Prime Minister James Marape.
The "Crocodile" pact, the name alluding to a shared connection to the formidable reptile found in both countries, represents a substantial upgrade to the existing security relationship. While details of the agreement remain confidential, it is understood to encompass a broad range of cooperation, including enhanced training for PNG defence forces, joint exercises, and increased maritime security collaboration. The aim is to bolster PNG's defence capabilities and promote regional stability in the face of evolving security challenges.
Albanese has expressed optimism that Marape will be able to secure the necessary approvals from his cabinet ministers for the agreement to proceed. The successful conclusion of the pact hinges on Marape’s ability to rally his government behind the initiative, paving the way for a formal signing ceremony.
The defence pact is viewed as a critical step in strengthening the bonds between Australia and Papua New Guinea, two close neighbours with a long history of cooperation. Beyond the immediate security benefits, the agreement is expected to foster greater collaboration in areas such as disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. It also underscores Australia's commitment to supporting PNG's sovereignty and security in a complex geopolitical landscape.
The pending signature of the "Crocodile" pact comes at a time of heightened regional focus on security partnerships. Both Australia and Papua New Guinea are keen to ensure the region remains stable and prosperous, and this defence agreement is seen as a vital tool in achieving those shared objectives. The coming days are crucial as Prime Minister Marape works to secure the final approvals that will solidify this landmark agreement and usher in a new era of defence cooperation between the two nations.
The "Crocodile" pact, the name alluding to a shared connection to the formidable reptile found in both countries, represents a substantial upgrade to the existing security relationship. While details of the agreement remain confidential, it is understood to encompass a broad range of cooperation, including enhanced training for PNG defence forces, joint exercises, and increased maritime security collaboration. The aim is to bolster PNG's defence capabilities and promote regional stability in the face of evolving security challenges.
Albanese has expressed optimism that Marape will be able to secure the necessary approvals from his cabinet ministers for the agreement to proceed. The successful conclusion of the pact hinges on Marape’s ability to rally his government behind the initiative, paving the way for a formal signing ceremony.
The defence pact is viewed as a critical step in strengthening the bonds between Australia and Papua New Guinea, two close neighbours with a long history of cooperation. Beyond the immediate security benefits, the agreement is expected to foster greater collaboration in areas such as disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. It also underscores Australia's commitment to supporting PNG's sovereignty and security in a complex geopolitical landscape.
The pending signature of the "Crocodile" pact comes at a time of heightened regional focus on security partnerships. Both Australia and Papua New Guinea are keen to ensure the region remains stable and prosperous, and this defence agreement is seen as a vital tool in achieving those shared objectives. The coming days are crucial as Prime Minister Marape works to secure the final approvals that will solidify this landmark agreement and usher in a new era of defence cooperation between the two nations.
Category:
Politics