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Anthony Albanese's approach of pushing back against China's influence in the Pacific Islands has faced another setback, with a major defence treaty with Papua New Guinea delayed due to national autonomy issues.

Treaty Signing Postponed Amid Sovereignty Discussions

A deal was anticipated to be signed this week, but the Australian leader is set to depart Port Moresby without signing the so-called Pukpuk defence treaty with his PNG Prime Minister, James Marape.

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

Second Setback in As Many Weeks

This marks the second such delay in as many weeks for Albanese. Earlier this month's regional summit, the government of Vanuatu halted the signing of a joint agreement with Australia, stating that further discussions was needed on resource investment from China.

Main Components of the Planned Agreement

The PNG deal is expected to create shared security measures in the case of a military attack, and would allow citizens of both nations to serve in the military of the other.

• Joint training exercises
• Improved equipment compatibility
• Collaborative efforts on cybersecurity preparedness

Diplomatic Efforts and Future Expectations

The Prime Minister has also promoted a arrangement for PNG to enter the NRL in 2028, which acts as a significant incentive within the wider $600m agreement. He emphasized that there was no delay to the team joining the competition.

Speaking at a press conference in Port Moresby, the Australian leader stated that the wording of the defence agreement had been agreed upon, but both governments required further discussion to finalize their respective cabinet processes.

"It is very positive. There is no downside in this at all. It is entirely advantageous for Australia and for PNG."

View from Papua New Guinea

Marape noted that the country's military capacity was inadequate to defend the country 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 sovereignty.

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

Response from Opponitions

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

Broader Implications

China has used infrastructure funding and loan agreements to build influence with Pacific Island countries, undercutting Australia's relationships with the region and straining the country's diplomatic reach.

Labor maintains that both agreements can still be signed in the next few months.