Australia and its closest geographical neighbour Papua New Guinea (PNG), have agreed to a historic Bilateral Security Treaty (BST) that entwines both countries to each other and helps better secure the region.
In a joint statement on Jan. 12 by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and PNG Prime Minister James Marape, both leaders noted that the BST was a natural progression for two counties that share such a long history, close geographical boundaries, bonds of friendship and a common strategic outlook that involves a stable and peaceful Indo-pacific.
“As near neighbours, close friends, and equal partners, Papua New Guinea’s and Australia’s defence and security is deeply connected,” the prime ministers said….