Australia

The partnership, announced during a joint press conference between Biden and the Japanese Prime Minister, Kishida at the White House in Washington, brings closer military ties between the three nations in a move aimed at deterring China.

"Today we announce our vision to co-operate on a networked air defence architecture among the United States, Japan, and Australia to counter growing air and missile threats," a joint statement between the two leaders said.

Marape's speech resonated with themes of gratitude, cooperation, and shared history, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations.

He commenced his address by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land and expressing sincere appreciation for the warm reception extended to him and his delegation. He delved into the intertwined history of Australia and Papua New Guinea, highlighting Australia's pivotal role in PNG's journey to independence in 1975.

Australia is constructing solar plants combined with battery energy storage systems in Aitape, Sandaun Province and Arawa, in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, to reduce reliance on diesel and enable clean and reliable power access for communities.

The two upgraded power stations are expected to be in operation in early 2024, with a pipeline of similar projects to follow.

Australian officials have become increasingly worried about the Pacific's vulnerability to cyber attacks, even as they face mounting questions about Australia's own capacity to deter criminal organisations and foreign governments targeting critical infrastructure, businesses and households across the country.

India had been undefeated throughout the tournament but were bowled out for 240 on the final ball of their innings before Head starred for Australia on his way to a match-winning 137 — after Australia had been reduced to 3-47 in front of an increasingly frenzied home crowd.

Head, with able support from Marnus Labuschagne (58), steadied the ship to lead Australia to victory despite falling with just two runs required.

He became the third Australian to make a century in a men's world cup final, joining Ricky Ponting (2003) and Adam Gilchrist (2007) in doing so.

The Indian captain, who's overseen a magnificent unbeaten 10-match procession towards the Ahmedabad climax, was quick to counter a questioner at his eve-of-final news conference who'd suggested Australia were no longer seen as a "dominant" side.

"I don't agree with not being dominant. They've won eight out of eight, the last eight games that they've played — and they played it really well," said Sharma.

"So, it's going to be a good contest.

"They are a very complete side."

Australia leapt out in an early surge that opponent New Zealand could not match at Sir John Guise Arena, beating the NZ side 96-49. NZ settled for the Silver.

In the earlier match on Saturday, Samoa defeated Guam to claim bronze, 132-63.

Guam came out firing in the first quarter, but a much-needed time out settled Samoa and they didn’t look back.

Samoa Captain, Semika Nee said the team’s performance was reflective of the work they have put in during the week and sticking to a solid game plan.

At the end of the championships, the final standings;

Fiji scored two second-half tries as they rebounded from a nine-point halftime deficit to tighten their grip on second place in Group C, but their failure to collect a bonus point left Australia with a slight hope of avoiding a first ever group-stage exit.

“If I am being honest we were beaten to the punch in the first half. We knew it was going to be a battle. I am just thankful we have the result,” Fiji coach Simon Raiwalui said.

The PNG PM’s 13 side who got on the front foot early with a try through Nene MacDonald to lead 6-0 before the Aussies got into the rhythm.

PNG Kumuls, however, kept themselves in the grind contesting in every phase of attack and defense forcing the Australian Kangaroos to work overtime to defend the scoreboard after scoring back-to-back tries to take the lead 12-6.

Never before have the Wallabies been bundled out of the tournament in the pool stage, but their campaign in France is all but over after the defeat to the Welsh.

The two-time world champions have a slim hope of staying alive if other results go their way and bonus points come into play, but they can expect to be packing their bags after their final pool match against Portugal next week.