Australia signs key defence deal with Papua New Guinea

Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed a historic defense cooperation agreement, aimed at strengthening security ties between the two countries. The deal is seen as a strategic move to counter China's growing influence in the region. The agreement allows for increased military cooperation, joint exercises, and the sharing of intelligence and information. It also paves the way for potential joint military operations and the establishment of a regional hub for humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. While experts suggest the deal is a response to China's rising presence in the Pacific, the PNG government has denied that it is specifically targeted at Beijing. Instead, they emphasize the agreement is about enhancing regional stability and disaster response capabilities. The signing of this defense pact is a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of the Asia-Pacific region, as Australia and its allies seek to maintain their influence in the face of China's growing assertiveness.