New Zealand voices renewed concern as Cook Islands PM eyes agreement with China

10/2/2025 19:31

New Zealand expressed renewed concern on Monday about the Cook Islands' prime minister travelling to China this week to sign agreements without properly consulting with Wellington despite the two nations' constitutional ties.



New Zealand has become increasingly cautious about China’s growing presence in the Pacific region and the potential threatsit poses to the country’s national security.



Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Monday at a press conference New Zealand expected transparency and consultation with Cook Islands after its prime minister, Mark Brown, announced that he was heading to China seeking a partnership in national development including infrastructure, trade and the

economy.



The Cook Islands is a self-governing country in free association with New Zealand, which provides budget support and commits to defend the South Pacific nation, whose people are New Zealand citizens.