US President Joe Biden is expected to travel to Papua New Guinea after the G7 summit from May 19-21 in Hiroshima, Japan, although his plans may change depending on the progress of debt ceiling negotiations in the US, according to Nikkei Asia .

President Biden is scheduled to meet with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and other leaders of the Pacific island nation. The two leaders will “discuss ways to strengthen cooperation on important challenges facing the region and the United States, such as combating climate change, protecting marine resources, and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” according to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

If the visit goes ahead, Mr Biden would become the first sitting US president to visit Papua New Guinea, as his administration strengthens ties with the Pacific island nation.

The two countries are preparing for a defense pact to be signed during Biden’s upcoming visit. The agreement is designed to allow the US military to use certain facilities and areas in Papua New Guinea, provided both sides agree, Nikkei Asia reported, citing several sources familiar with the matter.

Potential locations under discussion include Momote Airport, Jacksons International Airport, Nadzab Airport, Lombrum Naval Base, Lae Seaport and Port Moresby, the source said.

Nikkei Asia Screenshot

The US wants to pre-position materials including equipment, fuel and spare parts to be able to create a maintenance and resupply hub for military aircraft and ships in case of contingencies. The US also aims to conduct joint training and exercises to strengthen Papua New Guinea's capabilities.

"When signed, the Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) between the United States and Papua New Guinea will serve as a foundational framework for our two countries to strengthen our bilateral security relationship, enhance the Papua New Guinea Defense Force's ability to defend our territorial sovereignty, and enhance regional stability and security," a US State Department spokesperson told Nikkei Asia .

Papua New Guinea lies at the southern tip of the second island chain, which includes Japan's Ogasawara Islands and the US territory of Guam. Facilities there could be used to launch support and military operations in the event of a potential crisis in the Taiwan Strait or the South China Sea, according to Nikkei Asia .