Papua New Guinea announced on Friday that Alphabet, through Google, will build three submarine cables funded by Australia, under a?mutual defence treaty. This upgrade is a major step in upgrading the digital 'backbone' of the largest Pacific Island nation.

Papua New Guinea, a resource-rich country but largely undeveloped, is a strategic location for the U.S. and Australian military strategists. This is especially true at a moment when China is increasing its influence in this region.

Peter Tsiamalili said that the $120-million project will connect northern and southern Papua New Guinea, as well as Bougainville, with high-capacity 'cables.

The entire investment is funded by Australia's obligations under the Pukpuk Treaty, according to a statement he made in reference to the mutual defense pact that was signed in October.

He added that the project was a reflection of both countries' commitment to advancing digital security, regional stabilty, and national development.

Google will build the subsea cable, according to the statement. Tsiamalili also met with Australian and U.S. diplomatic representatives this week at Google's Australian offices to discuss the project.

Google Australia's spokesperson declined to comment about the PNG Project.

The Australian Foreign Affairs Department did not respond immediately to a comment request.

Tsiamalili stated that the three subsea cables of international grade will reduce reliance on single failure points and position PNG for investment from hyperscalers and digital global enterprises.

Text of the Pukpuk Treaty between Australia and PNG shows that it gives Australian defence personnel access to PNG communication systems, including satellites and cables.

Google had previously announced plans to build a hub for data on Australia's Indian Ocean Outpost, Christmas Island. This is another location that would be used as a strategic "defence" site.

Two new cables will be built to connect it with Australian cities that host key bases used by U.S. military forces.

Google confirmed last month that Christmas Island would be a "data hub", saying that two additional cable systems will link it westwards to Africa and Asia in order to "deepen" the resilience of the internet infrastructure.

The United States also strengthens military ties with PNG by signing a defence co-operation pact in the year 2023. (Reporting and editing by Clarence Fernandez in Sydney, Kirsty needham from Sydney)

(source: Reuters)