Fiji, Oct. 21 -- Australia and Papua New Guinea have reaffirmed their deepening defence alliance, with both countries committing to expand training, recruitment, and military cooperation while maintaining respect for each nation's sovereignty and national priorities.

At a joint press conference following the PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum in Canberra, Australian acting Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, PNG Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph, and PNG deputy Prime Minister John Rosso addressed key questions on defence, training, and bilateral relations.

Marles said discussions on Australia's ongoing budget support to PNG would continue during the forum but confirmed no new announcement was being made.

"Well perhaps to st...