After China deal, Cook Islands looks beyond ‘big brother’ New Zealand, US
Cook Islands' Prime Minister Mark Brown has defended the country's new partnership pact with China, asserting the nation's right to pursue independent economic opportunities. Brown emphasized that the agreement with Beijing offers prospects in trade, infrastructure, and sustainable ocean resource management, advocating for self-reliance over dependence on aid from New Zealand.
New Zealand has expressed concerns regarding the lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the agreement, which was signed during Brown's recent state visit to China. The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation of 17,000 people, maintains a "free association" with New Zealand, receiving budgetary assistance and support in foreign affairs and defense. Brown's statements suggest a desire to diversify partnerships and strengthen the Cook Islands' economic independence.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Cook Islands' Prime Minister Mark Brown has defended the country's new partnership pact with China, asserting the nation's right to pursue independent economic opportunities. Brown emphasized that the agreement with Beijing offers prospects in trade, infrastructure, and sustainable ocean resource management, advocating for self-reliance over dependence on aid from New Zealand.
New Zealand has expressed concerns regarding the lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the agreement, which was signed during Brown's recent state visit to China. The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation of 17,000 people, maintains a "free association" with New Zealand, receiving budgetary assistance and support in foreign affairs and defense. Brown's statements suggest a desire to diversify partnerships and strengthen the Cook Islands' economic independence.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
