NZ and PNG strengthen Defence ties

New Zealand and Papua New Guinea’s Defence relationship continues to grow, with the two countries today signing an agreement to deepen cooperation and engagement, Defence Minister Chris Penk says.

“In an increasingly volatile world, Pacific nations like ours are stronger when we work closely together to respond to the complex security challenges affecting our region,” Mr Penk says.

“PNG Defence Minister Elias Kapavore and I today signed the Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation 2026-2029, which will further deepen our cooperation and engagement, through more defence dialogue, training, exercises and personnel exchanges.”

Today’s signing builds on the New Zealand-Papua New Guinea Statement of Partnership 2025-2029 signed last year, which reaffirmed our nations’ security, defence and economic ties.

Mr Penk will also attend the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Ministers Meeting while in Papua New Guinea.

“As digital technologies become increasingly central to the security and prosperity of the Pacific region, New Zealand is focused on remaining an active and constructive partner, driving digital transformation, boosting economic growth and strengthening cybersecurity,” Mr Penk says.

“The ICT Ministers’ Meeting is a recently established part of PIF architecture, bringing together technology leaders from across the Pacific to help to shape the region’s approach to digital transformation and emerging technologies.

“New Zealand is committed to Pacific regional cooperation. We are stronger when we act together, supporting the Pacific to become a digitally inclusive and connected region.”

New Zealand will host the Pacific Islands Forum in 2027.

Caption: New Zealand Defence Minister Chris Penk and Papua New Guinea Defence Minister Elias Kapavore signed the Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation 2026-2029 on Wednesday. ...