Politics

Defence considers recruiting from PNG to see off China’s influence

In the jockeying for influence, the South Pacific’s largest nation has emerged as a key target given its proximity to Australia and rich natural resources.

Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login Up to 1000 Papua New Guineans could be enlisted each year for the Australian Defence Force to help meet demands to grow the military and cement ties with our nearest neighbour in the face of China’s growing assertiveness under a plan put before the Albanese government. But China is also vying to deepen economic links with PNG, with negotiations to begin next year for a free trade deal, prompting concerns Beijing is trying to bribe its way into dominance in Port Moresby.

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