Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown has defended the nation’s strategic partnership with China, emphasizing the necessity of engaging diverse international partners to address a significant $650 million (US$389 million) infrastructure plan that New Zealand alone is unable to finance. These remarks were made during the opening of the 2025 Pa Enua Governance Forum this week, coinciding with important national events celebrating the Cook Islands’ 60th self-governance anniversary in free association with New Zealand.
While Brown acknowledges the concerns raised by New Zealand regarding the partnership—particularly about a lack of prior consultation—he pointed out that the urgency of infrastructure development requires the Cook Islands to seek assistance from other major nations. He expressed surprise that New Zealand had entered a similar agreement with China, which has reportedly generated $60 billion (US$36 billion) in trade for New Zealand.
This partnership has raised concerns from the New Zealand government, which responded by pausing over $18 million (US$10.85 million) in core funding for sectors critical to the Cook Islands’ economy. Critics, including opposition leaders, voiced anxiety about whether this deal could undermine Cook Islands’ sovereignty and how it affects the longstanding ties with New Zealand.
Amidst this diplomatic tension, Brown highlighted the progress the Cook Islands has achieved since attaining self-governance, growing from one development partner in 1965 to formal relations with over 70 nations today. This expansive network reflects the Cook Islands’ intention to remain resilient and proactive in forging beneficial partnerships that align with their developmental needs, especially as they face the increasing challenges of climate change and economic diversification.
Public Service Commissioner Carl Hunter and other leaders within the forum resonated with Brown’s call for integrity in public service while emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration in governance. The leaders discussed strategies to strengthen ties between outer islands and central governance while recognizing the developmental issues heightened by the global pandemic and ongoing out-migration.
As the Cook Islands navigates its foreign relations—a blend of traditional ties and new partnerships—there is hope for constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts that ensure the nation’s sovereignty while promoting economic growth and sustainability. This approach illustrates a steadfast commitment to the collective aspirations of the Cook Islands’ citizens and marks a significant step in securing a prosperous future.
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