Sat Feb 15 04:37:07 UTC 2025: ## Cook Islands Inks Strategic Partnership Deal with China, Raising New Zealand Concerns
**Sydney, Australia – February 15, 2025** – The Cook Islands signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with China on Saturday, a move that has sparked concerns from New Zealand, with whom the Cook Islands has constitutional ties. The deal, signed by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Harbin, covers areas such as trade, investment, tourism, and climate resilience.
Prime Minister Brown stated the partnership will benefit the Cook Islands’ government, private sector, and citizens by enhancing opportunities with China. However, New Zealand expressed unease, citing a lack of prior access to the agreement despite requests for review. New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters stated that the agreements will be closely examined considering New Zealand’s interests and mutual constitutional responsibilities.
The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation, maintains independent international relations but receives budget support and defense commitments from New Zealand. New Zealand’s concerns stem from China’s growing influence in the Pacific region and fears of potential destabilization of Western influence. Prime Minister Brown’s visit to China included meetings with various institutions focusing on marine science, climate resilience, and economic cooperation.
First Piper 