Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to sign a new defence treaty with Papua New Guinea when he visits the Pacific nation this week.
He will head to PNG tomorrow for a two-day visit where he will have a one-on-one meeting with the Prime Minister James Marap.
Albanese will also be the first overseas leader to address PNG’s parliament in the country’s capital Port Moresby tomorrow.
“I want to thank Australia’s great friend Prime Minister (James) Marape on giving not just me, but I believe Australia, that great honour,” Albanese said, speaking ahead of the trip.
He said talks would cover the countries’ security and economic relationship, support for PNG’s economy and Australia “advancing our friendship in the region,” especially on climate change.
Australian is negotiating a new defence treaty with PNG – its nearest neighbour to the north.
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The federal government previously said it wanted military personnel from both countries to work and train alongside each other more often.
Following its election victory last year, the Albanese government has increased engagement with Pacific nations in a bid to counter the growing power of China in the region.
Albanese in December postponed a visit to PNG until this year after he tested positive for coronavirus.
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