Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso is currently serving as Acting Prime Minister while Prime Minister James Marape attends the official signing of the Papua New Guinea–Australia Security Treaty in Canberra.

The Treaty, described by both governments as a “landmark agreement,” aims to strengthen defence cooperation while expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.

Prime Minister Marape said the signing marks a new chapter in the bilateral relationship.

“This agreement opens many doors for us and fine-tunes our relationship with Australia going forward into the next 50 years,” he said.

He emphasized that the Treaty is not limited to defence and security. The agreement also opens opportunities in clean energy, policing, education, and employment, reflecting the “deep friendship and mutual trust” shared by both nations.

While in Australia, Prime Minister Marape is also holding discussions with National Rugby League (NRL) executives and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese regarding Papua New Guinea’s entry into the NRL.

“These talks are focused on finalizing the team’s name, structure, membership drives, and sponsorship arrangements frameworks that will underpin our country’s entry into the NRL,” he said.

“Our aim is to ensure that PNG’s NRL team is built on a strong foundation, professionally managed, commercially viable, and nationally representative.”

All of the updates and discussions will be provided to the PNG NRL Board later this week as preparations continue for the upcoming Prime Minister’s XIII match scheduled for next Sunday at the National Football Stadium.

Prime Minister Marape is expected to return to Port Moresby tomorrow afternoon and will hold a press conference to brief the nation on the significance of both the Security Treaty and the NRL discussions.