Getty Images
A PNG team at a trial match in Sydney in 2013
Papua New Guinea (PNG) will be joining Australia’s national rugby league competition, under the condition that they cut security ties with China.
The Pacific nation has produced many NRL stars and has been pushing to join the league for some time.
Australia will provide A$600m over ten years to establish the team in Port Moresby, starting competition in 2028, and promote the sport in the Pacific region.
In return, PNG has agreed to a separate pact reaffirming its security partnership with Australia.
The details of the agreements are confidential, but Australia can withdraw funding if PNG enters security agreements with countries outside the “Pacific family”, excluding China.
If Australia pulls out, the NRL must drop the PNG team.
PNG Prime Minister James Marape described the deal as a “monumental” opportunity for his country, emphasizing unity between PNG’s diverse groups and with Australia.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the agreement as a great day for both countries, recognizing PNG’s passion for rugby league.
This marks the NRL’s first expansion overseas, with the New Zealand Warriors being the only other foreign team in the league.
The NRL sees the PNG team as a significant opportunity for growth and development in the region.
The name and uniform for the new team will be decided later.
‘Unprecedented’ win for sport diplomacy
Stuart Murray, an Associate Professor of International Relations, believes this sports agreement is unprecedented in its scale and impact.
Australia and China have been competing for influence in the Pacific, with Australia securing exclusive security pacts in the region.
The deals with PNG are seen as a strategic win for Australia, although some view it as exerting power over PNG sovereignty.
Despite the security aspect, both countries stress the agreements are about enhancing their relationship.
The agreements signal a shift towards a more transactional approach in Pacific relations, according to experts.
This marks a significant moment in bilateral relations and may shape Australia’s future agenda in the region.
China’s investment in sports infrastructure is noted, but experts believe Australia’s unique approach will continue to drive its influence in the Pacific.
“Necesitamos utilizarlo, especialmente en una región muy, muy disputada como el Pacífico.”