Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed signed a new joint agreement to protect the special values of the historic Kokoda Track.
This the second such joint understanding agreement and aims to support sustainable development of the Owen Stanley Ranges, Brown River Catchment and Kokoda Track region.
The first was signed in 2008.
Australia's foreign Minister Stephen Smith and PNG Minister for Foreign Affairs Sam Abal signed the agreement in Alotau, PNG, yesterday.
The agreement covers a number of key objectives, starting with a safe and well-managed Kokoda Track, which honours its wartime historical significance and protects and promotes it special values.
It also aims to enhance the quality of life for landowners and communities through improved delivery of basic services, income generation and community development.
