China urges Papua New Guinea not to exclude other countries after it signed 'Pukpuk' communique with Australia

China has urged Papua New Guinea not to sign any deal that might exclude or restrict third parties from cooperating with the Pacific nation, as Australia scrambles to clinch a landmark defence treaty.

In a social media post, the Chinese embassy in PNG advised the country not to compromise its independence, urging PNG to "properly handle issues bearing on its sovereignty and long-term interests".

China is one of PNG's most important trade and economic partners, with defence experts in the island nation raising concerns the high-level pact with Australia could put strain on the country's relationship with Beijing.

Australia and PNG fail to clinch defence agreement Photo shows Anthony Albanese and James Marape

A major defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea has failed to