China has committed billions of dollars to Pacific nations, funding hospitals, sports stadiums, roads and other public works

Australia and PNG are to begin negotiations on a defence treaty in a move that could have major implications for national security and the Pacific's strategic landscape.

CANBERRA -- Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles met with his Papua New Guinea (PNG) counterpart Billy Joseph in Brisbane on Thursday to open talks on a formal treaty-level defense agreement. In a statement released ahead of the meeting, Marles said he wanted to take Australia's relationship with PNG to the "next level."

Australia and Papua New Guinea are initiating discussions for a comprehensive defense treaty to enhance military cooperation between their forces. As regional dynamics evolve with China's growing influence,

Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have announced plans to negotiate a full defense treaty, aiming to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations. The move builds on their existing defense partnership,