Fiji, Oct. 21 -- Australia and Papua New Guinea discussed direct recruitment of Papua New Guineans into the Australian Defence Force and the implementation of key security agreements as the two countries hold their first ministerial forum since becoming allies.

The 32nd Australia-Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum opened in Port Moresby Tuesday, with ministers from both countries focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation, trade, investment, health and education.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the new alliance marked a significant change in the relationship between the two neighbours.

"We have always been the deepest of friends. Now we have each other's back. That's what it means to be allies," Marl...