A landmark agreement with Papua Guinea. Washington moves closer to encircling China
The US military will be able to develop and operate bases in Papua New Guinea under a landmark security agreement, part of Washington's efforts to encircle China in the Pacific.
The full text of the agreement was presented to Papua New Guinea's parliament on Wednesday evening, allowing the details of the agreement, which was signed in May and kept secret, to be revealed.
The United States gained access to military bases in Papua New Guinea under a security agreement with the archipelago last May as part of its efforts to encircle China in the Pacific.
"Unhindered access"
With PNG's approval, the U.S. would be able to deploy troops and ships at major airports, as well as locations such as the Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island and a seaport in the capital Port Moresby.
The agreement grants Washington "unimpeded access" to sites for "pre-stocking equipment, supplies, and materiel" and "exclusive use" of certain sectors of the bases that could see "construction activities."
Prime Minister James Marabe was forced to defend the agreement in the face of a wave of protests accusing the authorities of surrendering the country's sovereignty.
"We have allowed our military to weaken in the last 48 years," Marabi told parliament on Wednesday evening, emphasizing that "sovereignty is determined by the strength of the military."
Papua New Guinea, located on major sea routes, has become a key pivot in the diplomatic standoff between Washington and Beijing.
(Source: Al-Arabiya)
