The Cook Islands and the United States have entered into a non-binding Framework for Engagement and Cooperation aimed at enhancing supply chains for critical minerals and rare earths, particularly in relation to deep-sea minerals. This agreement marks a significant step towards collaborative efforts in research, exploration, investment facilitation, processing, and the development of supply chains.
The framework acknowledges the Cook Islands’ leadership in ocean governance and regulatory practices while emphasizing the nation’s sovereign control over its seabed minerals and decision-making processes. The initiative reflects a mutual interest in fortifying sustainable and responsible supply chains vital for modern technological advancements. By merging the Cook Islands’ regulatory expertise, environmental stewardship, and resource wealth with the United States’ market depth, technical abilities, and investment power, the framework aims to produce high-standard outcomes for both parties involved.
Prime Minister Mark Brown, who also serves as the Minister for Seabed Minerals, stated that this framework provides the Cook Islands with various options, laying a foundation for authentic collaboration and reinforcing strategic partnerships. He highlighted that any development would occur on the Cook Islands’ terms and under its laws, ensuring long-term benefits for its citizens.
Key components of the framework include the establishment of a U.S-Cook Islands Working Group to coordinate engagements and share expertise, promoting joint research and geological mapping, and encouraging responsible investments that align with high environmental, social, and governance standards. The initiative also aims to develop secure and diverse critical minerals supply chains, foster early engagement among governments, investors, and operators, and enable cooperation on downstream opportunities like processing and recycling.
An important aspect of the framework involves the dialogue on fair pricing mechanisms that mirror the actual costs associated with responsible extraction and processing, thereby fostering transparent and high-standard markets. All collaborative efforts under this agreement will adhere to each country’s domestic laws and regulations, which for the Cook Islands includes stringent environmental assessments and permitting protocols.
The new framework brings numerous strategic advantages for the Cook Islands, including heightened investment certainty and credibility, enhanced market connectivity without binding commitments, and a platform for capability exchange that enriches both national and international best practices. Furthermore, it strategically positions the Cook Islands as a preferred partner for entities focused on responsible and transparent approaches to critical minerals development.
The Cook Islands Government has clarified that this framework does not equate to any mining licenses, approvals, or guarantees of funding or timelines. It does not modify the existing environmental and regulatory framework of the Cook Islands, underscoring the importance of compliance with domestic and international laws for any future endeavors. Overall, this partnership exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to resource management that values environmental protection alongside economic development.
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