Foreign Affairs Minister signs ratification of Puk Puk Treaty

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkatchenko signed the Instrument of Ratification, of the Puk Puk Treaty today in Port Moresby.

The treaty was ratified on the 20th of March 2026.

Minister Tkatchenko said the Puk Puk Treaty will become operational once the two countries have signed in exchange the instruments of ratification.

"Today, Papua New Guinea has led the charge in ratifying and certifying the Puk Puk Treaty, and Australia will therefore follow in the next couple of months to formalise it and finalise the certification." He said.

Minister Tkatchenko said the Puk Puk Treaty will ensure very high and professional standards in recruitment, training, and force preparations.

He said the Treaty is about working together in all military spheres, and the duty of the military under the Treaty is for the defence and security of Papua New Guinea.

Minister Tkatchenko also said this is the first time Papua New Guinea has had an alliance with another country at this level and regard.

Tkatchenko also said it is not only about security but also for emergency disasters like what we are experiencing now with the after-effects of Tropical Cyclone Maila. Australia stepped in and is assisting with aid and logistics.

The instrument of ratification will come into effect once Australia has ratified the certification in the coming months.