17 May 2023

Concerns PNG could sign new US millitary pact

From Morning Report, 7:28 am on 17 May 2023

There are concerns in Papua New Guinea that the country could be dragged into the militarisation of the Pacific if it signs a new security pact with the United States.

According to a draft copy of the agreement, seen by RNZ Pacific, the deal would grant the US armed forces access to PNG's territorial waters and airspace.

American President Joe Biden will visit PNG next week.

RNZ Pacific editor Koroi Hawkins has been working on this story and spoke with Corin Dann.