Foreign affairs minister met PNG leaders on Monday in Port Moresby and will continue to Timor-Leste on Wednesday
“We have to really show that we’re willing to set up that platform for dialogue with the Pacific. We have long historical ties, deep economic ties, and understanding of culture, and a multi-faceted capacity to engage. Those are worth something in this region.”
Jeffrey Wall, who has worked with PNG ministers including a prime minister, says Australia needs to keep an eye on Beijing’s moves. He said the Conflict Islands were “absolutely critical”. If China bought them it could cut off the main sea channel between Australia and the world, he said. In a press conference on Monday with her PNG counterpart, Justin Tkatchenko, Wong said Australia was a partner that “seeks to work with you” and “to listen to the new government and the people”.
“You are profoundly important to us,” she said. “We share history, we share values, we share affinity and we share a region. Our futures are tied together.”
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