Papua New Guinea says it will sign a defense agreement with the United States but is open to cooperation with other countries including China.
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| Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and his wife meet with US President Joe Biden on September 21, 2022. (Source: AFP) |
The Papua New Guinea government said the defense deal would boost the country's defense infrastructure and capabilities after decades of neglect.
The agreement is expected to be signed during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to the country on May 22.
Stressing that it does not take sides in the US-China strategic competition, the statement said the agreement would "not prevent Papua New Guinea from cooperating with other countries including China".
In addition, the agreement will not grant immunity to US service members if they commit crimes in Papua New Guinea.
On May 22, the Pacific island nation will host US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, New Zealand leader Chris Hipkins and leaders of other Pacific island nations.
While Mr Modi's visit is expected to focus on trade, Mr Blinken's visit is aimed at signing a defence cooperation agreement (DCA) with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape.
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