China Warns Papua New Guinea Over Defence Pact With Australia

Beijing has cautioned Papua New Guinea (PNG) about the implications of a proposed defence treaty with Australia, urging the Pacific nation to safeguard its sovereignty and maintain independence in its foreign policy. The Chinese embassy in Port Moresby released a statement acknowledging PNG’s right to enter bilateral agreements but warned that such pacts should not exclude third countries or undermine their legitimate interests.

The warning comes as PNG and Australia move closer to finalising the “Pukpuk” mutual defence treaty. The agreement was expected to be signed during Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent visit to Port Moresby, but a delay arose after PNG’s cabinet postponed final approval. While both governments have agreed on the text, the signing is now pending further domestic processes within PNG.

China’s statement emphasised that PNG should uphold “independence, self-reliance and sovereignty” when considering the treaty. The embassy also stressed that defence cooperation should not be exclusive or designed to target other nations, an indirect reference to Beijing’s concerns about growing Australian and Western influence in the Pacific.

The deal has also sparked debate within PNG. Opposition MP Douglas Tomuriesa urged that any defence partnership must include strong safeguards to protect the country’s legal and constitutional framework. Retired defence officers and analysts warned that PNG’s long-standing policy of being “friends to all, enemies to none” could be compromised if the treaty is perceived as aligning the country too closely with Australia and its allies.

While Canberra and Port Moresby have both promoted the pact as a step toward strengthening regional stability and security, critics argue that it could reduce PNG’s diplomatic flexibility. China’s intervention highlights the geopolitical stakes of the agreement, as Pacific nations face increasing competition between major powers seeking influence in the region.