The US inked a deal with Papua New Guinea for access to their deep water port at Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island. The deal includes “unimpeded access” to six sites that were utilized by various governments during WWII and includes the Capital of Port Moresby. The area provided strategic positioning for Allies to retake the Philippines from Japan. It gives the US a leg up in case of Chinese action against Taiwan.
There is intense competition between the US, our allies, and China for access to such deep water ports. China was able to gain access to the Solomon Islands last year, where analysts fear they will set up military bases.
This agreement with PNG gives the US “unimpeded access” to use six key ports and airports on the island for troop bases and naval vessels. The pact was passed by the PNG legislature in June.
This U.S.-Papua New Guinea Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) is an important milestone for the relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea (PNG) – and for our collective Indo-Pacific security. The agreement reflects our partnership and our shared values as Pacific countries, the importance of ensuring the security and prosperity of the region, and our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The DCA represents an important next step in the evolution of our long-standing relationship as the United States and Papua New Guinea continue to work closely together on a wide range of issues of importance to both countries, the region, and the rest of the world. This agreement will serve as the foundational framework for our two countries to enhance our security cooperation, improve the capacity of the PNG Defence Force, and increase stability and security in the region.
Importantly, this agreement underscores our commitment to deepening our engagement with the region, modernizing our alliances, updating our force posture, and bolstering our Allies and partners in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
The AFP reported on the pact June 15. The agreement with Australia was delayed due to issues with the “wording.” Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Marape stated that the delay would in no way compromise their excellent relationship with Australia.
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Australia and the United States are working to counter China’s increasing influence in South Pacific nations including Papua New Guinea.
Papua New Guinea’s location just north of Australia makes it strategically significant. It was the site of fierce battles during World War II, and with a population of nearly 10 million people, is the most populous Pacific Island nation…
Last week, Marape said the pact is mutually beneficial and “secures our national interests” in “becoming a robust economy in this part of the world.”
But the agreement sparked student protests in the second-largest city, Lae. And many in the Pacific are concerned about the increasing militarization of the region.
The pacts are not without controversy in Papua New Guinea, apparently.
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Related:
- Unpredictable Solomon Islands Blocked Foreign Vessels From Their Port
- Documents advocate plans for Chinese military expansion, presence in Solomon Islands
- China Reportedly Selling Off Treasuries As It Prepares For A Blockade Of Taiwan And War With The United States (Video)
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