At first blush, the December 8 announcement that Australia and Nauru have signed a security treaty offers something for both countries. Australia increases its influence in a region in which it feels threatened by China. Nauru receives economic assistance and reliable banking services. But important questions remain unanswered.

“The Nauru-Australia treaty will strengthen Nauru’s long-term stability and economic resilience. This treaty is an agreement that meets the need of both countries and serves our shared interest in a peaceful, secure and prosperous region,” he said.

The new treaty comes as Australia seeks to counter China's rising power in the Pacific. It prevents third countries from making security and critical infrastructure deals with Nauru.Australia and Nauru have announced a landmark security treaty on Monday-- a move which is seen as a broader effort by Canberra to push back against China's influence in

SYDNEY : Australia and Pacific nation Nauru announced a landmark security treaty today, advancing Canberra’s aim of blunting China’s growing regional influence. Under the treaty, Nauru must seek Australia’s agreement before it inks any other bilateral deals concerning maritime security, defence and policing.

The treaty limits Nauru’s deal-making abilities. Last year, Beijing persuaded the Pacific microstate to sever diplomatic links with Taiwan.