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Anthony Albanese's approach of pushing back against China's influence in the Pacific Islands has been dealt another blow, with a major defence treaty with Papua New Guinea delayed due to sovereignty concerns.

Treaty Signing Postponed Amid Autonomy Negotiations

A deal was expected to be finalized this week, but the Australian leader is leaving Port Moresby without concluding the mutual defence treaty with his PNG Prime Minister, James Marape.

The Australian PM downplayed the postponement, indicating that government discussions were interrupted by commemorations of PNG's independence anniversary. Instead, the two nations signed a shared statement and committed to proceed with negotiations on the broader defence pact.

Second Setback in Recent Weeks

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

Key Elements of the Planned Agreement

The proposed treaty is expected to establish shared security measures in the event of a military attack, and would enable citizens of both nations to enlist in the military of the partner nation.

• Joint training exercises
• Enhanced technical interoperability
• New cooperation on cybersecurity preparedness

Negotiation Context and Future Expectations

Albanese has pushed for a arrangement for PNG to enter the National Rugby League in 2028, which serves as a significant incentive within the broader $600m partnership. He emphasized that there was no delay to the PNG team joining the competition.

Addressing media at a media briefing in Port Moresby, the Australian leader said that the text of the security treaty had been confirmed, but both governments required further discussion to finalize their internal approvals.

"It is highly beneficial. 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 noted that the country's military capacity was not sufficient to protect the nation and its people, making shared security settings with Australia necessary.

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

"A security treaty for Papua New Guinea would be the highest in terms of secure relations we have established with any country."

Political Reactions

The Liberal senator Jane Hume called the delay as "a significant setback for the PM", adding that it is "really important that these deals are approached correctly and with a guarantee that they will actually come through."

Broader Implications

China has used infrastructure funding and financial partnerships to expand its presence with nations in the Pacific, undercutting Australia's ties with the region and straining the nation's foreign policy efforts.

Labor believes that the two treaties can still be signed in the coming months.