Squiz Today Defence ministers meet in PNG, and some scaled-back Christmas decor
Dec 2, 2025
Defence ministers gather in Port Moresby to discuss regional security with tensions rising in West Papua. The conversation shifts to Qantas' return to the Sydney-Port Moresby route, linking it to investments in PNG's infrastructure. Meanwhile, US strikes on Venezuelan boats raise ethical concerns about targeting survivors. A critical report on political appointments in Australia calls for reform. Finally, a sneak peek at the White House's scaled-back Christmas decorations adds a festive touch to the dialogue.
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New Tripartite Defence Dialogue
- Australia, PNG and Indonesia began an annual defence ministers' meeting to boost regional cooperation and Australian influence in the Pacific.
- The talks aim to address treaty concerns and cross-border risks from West Papua violence that could destabilise PNG.
West Papua Conflict Could Cross Border
- West Papua's conflict risks spilling across the 820 km border into Papua New Guinea, prompting PNG to propose a 10-kilometre buffer zone.
- PNG respects Indonesian sovereignty but says cross-border violence would become a PNG military issue.
Soft Power And Strategic Investment
- Australia’s $600 million investment in PNG ties into security aims, including discouraging PNG from signing defence deals with China.
- Infrastructure and sporting investments (NRL teams) are part of a broader geopolitical strategy.