China cautioned Papua New Guinea against “undermining” its interests and sovereignty in signing a mutual defense pact with Australia widely seen as a counter to Beijing’s growing influence in the Pacific.
Australia and Papua New Guinea this week agreed on the text of a deal which would see the countries commit to defending each other from armed attacks.
A spokesperson for Beijing’s embassy in Port Moresby on Thursday said China respected Papua New Guinea’s right to strike deals with other countries, but such a deal should not be “exclusive,” nor restrict Papua New Guinea from cooperating with other countries.
Photo: AFP
“It should also refrain from targeting any third party or undermining its legitimate rights and interests,” they said.
China urged the country to maintain “mutually beneficial cooperation” with Beijing and “uphold independence and self-reliance.”
Beijing has committed billions of dollars to Pacific nations over the past decade, funding hospitals, sports stadiums, roads and other public works in an attempt to win their favor.
Canberra has stepped up its engagement with the region in a bid to counter China’s influence.
Australia and Papua New Guinea said the treaty would be signed after Cabinet processes in both countries, following a delay this week.
The text of their deal said “any activities, agreements or arrangements with third parties would not compromise the ability of either of the Parties to implement the Treaty” — a clear nod to China.
Papua New Guinean Prime Minister James Marape this week said that he would send Papua New Guinean Minister of Defense Billy Joseph to China to discuss the agreement.
To the north of former colonial power Australia, Papua New Guinea is the largest and most populous state in Melanesia.
Beijing’s economic support in the Pacific appears to be paying dividends, with Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Nauru all severing diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China over the past few years.
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