The Cook Islands’ international relationships connect diplomacy with national prosperity. Through these relationships, we seek opportunities that strengthen economic resilience, support sustainable development and improve the wellbeing of Cook Islanders.
Relationships that serve national priorities
We work with partner countries and government agencies to advance national interests and respond to international developments. This engagement connects foreign policy with trade, investment and development cooperation. The special relationship of free association with New Zealand remains an important foundation, alongside longstanding and emerging partnerships.
For information about our diplomatic relations, contact Foreign Affairs.
We have also agreed partnership and development cooperation frameworks with several of our key partners, which set out shared priorities and how we will work together:
- Waka Hourua / Vaka Purua Statement of Partnership — New Zealand, 2022–2025
- ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership — Australia
- Action Plan for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) 2025–2030 — China
Related agreements and statements
- New Zealand–Cook Islands Joint Ministerial Forum statement, 2024
- Cook Islands–New Zealand Declaration on Defence and Security, 2026
- Cook Islands–China Memorandum of Understanding on Deepening Blue Economy Cooperation
Development partners: relationships and priorities
MFAI works with international partners to support the Cook Islands’ development priorities. We connect diplomatic relationships with opportunities for trade, investment, technical assistance and cooperation. Our work aims to strengthen economic resilience and support wellbeing across the Cook Islands, including the pa enua.
New Zealand and Australia
Our relationship with New Zealand is grounded in free association, shared citizenship, Māori kinship and mutual respect. The Waka Hourua / Vaka Purua Statement of Partnership sets out joint action in health, education, infrastructure and public service development.
The ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership with Australia covers security, economic resilience and climate adaptation. We also work with China, Japan, the United States and other partners to expand access to resources, expertise and trade opportunities.
Connecting partnerships with our people
These relationships are connected to work at home. We work with government agencies and seek stronger links with business, civil society and Cook Islanders abroad. The diaspora contributes skills, knowledge and cultural connections to our nation’s development.
For enquiries about development cooperation or international partnerships, contact Foreign Affairs. Explore related work in International Affairs and Trade and regional and multilateral engagement.
Trade and economic diplomacy
The Ministry’s functions include engaging in trade negotiations, supporting market access and contributing to economic policy coordination. We work across government and with the private sector so international engagement reflects national needs and technical expertise.
Our priorities include expanding trade opportunities, attracting quality investment and supporting a more diverse and resilient economy. We also recognise the contribution of Cook Islanders overseas through skills, knowledge, cultural connections and economic initiatives.
Our work is guided by the National Trade Policy Framework.
Working together
We aim to deepen diplomatic, economic and development cooperation while keeping external engagement aligned with national development goals. Public agencies, businesses, civil society and diaspora communities all contribute knowledge and perspectives that inform this work.
Read about our Development Partners or contact Foreign Affairs for an enquiry about the Ministry’s international work.
Related research: Scoping Report: Intra-Pacific labour mobility to address labour shortages in Niue and Cook Islands.