New Zealand raises ‘concern’ as Cook Islands prepares to sign China deal
GuardianFeb 08
New Zealand Raises 'Concern' Over Cook Islands-China Deal
story
Above: New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in the Nizami Plenary Room at Baku Olympic Stadium. Image copyright: Dominika Zarzycka/Contributor/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Facts
New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has expressed "significant concern" as the Cook Islands' Prime Minister Mark Brown prepares to travel to Beijing to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership deal with China.
The Cook Islands has been operating as a self-governing nation in free association with New Zealand since 1965. Its 17K citizens hold New Zealand citizenship and receive defense and security support from Wellington.
A spokesperson for the deputy prime minister accused the Cook Islands of failing "to properly consult New Zealand," adding, "This lack of consultation is a matter of significant concern to the New Zealand government."
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
The Cook Islands has every right to pursue independent international agreements that benefit its economic development and national interests. The partnership with China focuses solely on trade and infrastructure and, therefore, doesn't require New Zealand's approval or oversight.
Anti-China narrative
The Cook Islands' lack of transparency and consultation on a major agreement with China violates constitutional obligations and raises significant security concerns for the region. This move undermines its special relationship with New Zealand and its defense and foreign affairs coordination arrangements.
