The Cook Islands has signed a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, Prime Minister Mark Brown’s office confirmed on Saturday. The deal, finalised during Brown’s visit to Beijing, is expected to raise concerns in New Zealand, which has constitutional ties with the island nation.
Brown previously stated that his trip to China aimed to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, trade, and economic development. However, New Zealand expressed unease over China’s growing influence in the Pacific and noted it had not been allowed to review the agreements ahead of Brown’s visit.
A spokesperson for Brown confirmed the signing but did not disclose details, saying a media statement would be issued later.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ office responded cautiously, stating that once the agreements are available, Wellington will review them in line with its interests and constitutional responsibilities.
The Cook Islands, though self-governing, receives budget support and defence commitments from New Zealand. While it can engage internationally as an independent state, Wellington remains a key partner.
During his visit, Brown has also discussed marine science, climate resilience, and economic cooperation with Chinese institutions, he said in a Facebook post.
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At least 16 people, including students, were killed and 20 others injured after a school bus carrying students from Antioqueño High School crashed and fell off a cliff in northern Colombia on Sunday, local authorities said.
The U.S. condemned a drone strike on a United Nations base in Kadugli, Sudan, on Saturday that killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injured eight others.
France has called on the European Union to postpone a planned vote on the long-negotiated trade agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc, citing insufficient safeguards for European farmers.
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An explosive device found in a vehicle linked to one of the alleged attackers in Bondi shooting has been secured and removed according to Police. The incident left 12 people dead.
At least 16 people, including students, were killed and 20 others injured after a school bus carrying students from Antioqueño High School crashed and fell off a cliff in northern Colombia on Sunday, local authorities said.
The U.S. condemned a drone strike on a United Nations base in Kadugli, Sudan, on Saturday that killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injured eight others.
France has called on the European Union to postpone a planned vote on the long-negotiated trade agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc, citing insufficient safeguards for European farmers.
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has offered condolences to President Donald Trump following an ISIS attack near the ancient city of Palmyra that killed two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter, Syrian and U.S. officials said Sunday.
At least 14 people have died and 32 others were injured after flash floods swept through Morocco’s Atlantic coastal city of Safi on Sunday, authorities said.
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