BY JEMIMA GARRETT

FORMER DEFENCE FORCE commander Major General Gerry Singirok says Australia's failure to enter into a full defence partnership with PNG is leaving it open to people smugglers and terrorists.

Major General Singirok is calling on Australia take its defence relationship with PNG to a new level and to back a full coast-watch program.

He says the lack of control and surveillance along PNG's border with Indonesia and in its huge exclusive economic zone at sea means PNG is unable to stem an influx of illegal immigrants and presents a haven for terrorists.

He says Australia's P3 Orion surveillance flights and its Pacific patrol boat program are completely inadequate to address regional security needs.

Source: Australia Network News