The Cook Islands and China have signed a strategic partnership deal that covers areas such as deep-sea mining, education scholarships, trade, and infrastructure. The deal excludes security ties, but has raised concerns in Western nations about China’s increasing influence in the Pacific. The Cook Islands government released the action plan for the deal in response to calls for transparency, as New Zealand had not been consulted despite constitutional ties with the island nation.
Prime Minister Mark Brown emphasized that the partnership with China complements, rather than replaces, longstanding relationships with countries like New Zealand and Australia. However, opposition in the Cook Islands has grown regarding the potential threat to close ties with New Zealand. Brown faces a potential no-confidence vote in parliament, reflecting the concerns of some Cook Islanders.
China will provide a one-time grant of around $4 million to the Cook Islands as part of the deal. New Zealand has raised concerns about the lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the agreements signed between China and the Cook Islands. The two neighbors have committed to consulting on security, defense, and foreign relations, with New Zealand providing budget support and defense commitments to the Cook Islands.
Areas of cooperation under the pact include seabed mining, hydrography, disaster relief, and cultural ties. While security is not explicitly mentioned, concerns have been raised about potential military use of information and marine infrastructure. The Cook Islands, situated between Hawaii and New Zealand, can interact with the international community as an independent state, with China supporting its aspirations to join global bodies.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
