Cook Islands PM to visit China, strengthen economic and strategic ties

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown will visit China from February 10 to 14, marking the first visit by a leader of the island nation in a decade. Brown aims to expand economic opportunities, discussing trade, climate, investment, and infrastructure while maintaining national sovereignty.

The visit comes as China increases its influence in the Pacific, following concerns from some island nations over U.S. President Donald Trump’s foreign aid freeze, migration policies, and withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

Brown described the trip as part of a broader strategy to strengthen relations with New Zealand, Australia, and China, ensuring Cook Islands’ economic and strategic interests remain a priority.

The Cook Islands, an independent nation in free association with New Zealand, controls its domestic and foreign affairs but relies on New Zealand for defense and emergency assistance. The nation has 15,000 residents, with nearly 100,000 Cook Island Maori living in New Zealand.

During the visit, Brown said a joint action plan for comprehensive strategic partnership with China will be finalized, though details remain unclear. New Zealand has urged consultation on agreements that may have strategic or security implications.

In December, the Cook Islands’ proposal to introduce its own passports was rejected by New Zealand, though discussions on full independence remain open.

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