Avarua: The Cook Islands has entered a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, a move that may strain its relationship with New Zealand, its key ally and constitutional partner.
The agreement was signed in Harbin, China, by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
According to a statement from Brown’s office, the partnership aims to boost cooperation in key sectors, including trade, tourism, aquaculture, agriculture, infrastructure, and climate resilience.
Prime Minister Brown emphasized that the deal would open up new opportunities for the Cook Islands’ government, businesses, and citizens, aligning with the country's long-term development goals.
However, the agreement has sparked concerns in New Zealand, which maintains close ties with the Cook Islands, providing financial support and defense guarantees. New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Minister, Winston Peters, stated that his country would review the details of the agreement once they were available, keeping in mind their mutual constitutional responsibilities.
Tensions arose when New Zealand requested to see the agreements before Brown’s visit to China but was not granted access. New Zealand has become increasingly cautious about China’s growing influence in the Pacific, fearing it could undermine regional stability and Western alliances.
During his visit, Prime Minister Brown also engaged in discussions with Chinese institutions on topics such as marine science, climate resilience, and economic cooperation.
The Cook Islands, although self-governing, shares a special constitutional relationship with New Zealand. Its citizens hold New Zealand passports, and Wellington provides both financial and security support.
