Mahuta may discuss new security treaty
WELLINGTON: Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta is heading to Papua New Guinea for meetings as the possibility of a new security deal with the country surfaces, following widespread criticism of an earlier deal between PNG and China.
Ms Mahuta said yesterday she would fly to Port Moresby on Monday for a four day visit to hold face to face meetings, and visit development projects.
The trip follows a visit to PNG this week by Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong.
Earlier this week, Papua New Guinea Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko made the surprise revelation his country had began very early discussions with Australia about a possible new security treaty, which Mr Tkatchenko said New Zealand could potentially become part of.
The prospect of a new deal adds to the diplomatic churn resulting from a surprise security deal struck between China and the Solomon Islands in March, the exact contents of which have not been revealed.
Political figures from the United States, Australia and New Zealand have expressed concern about that deal, as well as groups within PNG.
As New Zealand continued to reconnect with the world, Ms Mahuta said it was vital ‘‘we invest time and effort into strengthening our ties with partners’’.
She said it was a challenging time for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.
‘‘With the ongoing impacts of Covid19, climate change, and an increasingly complex security environment, the need to support and build resilience is more important than ever.’’
Mr Tkatchenko had stepped into the role of PNG’s new minister for foreign affairs after recent national elections that reelected James Marape as prime minister, but were marred by violence.
Ms Mahuta planned to meet other politicians and community leaders, during the visit, and was scheduled to visit agriculture projects supported by New Zealand at Mt Hagan. — RNZ