A healthy ocean, fair international rules and strong partnerships underpin the Cook Islands security and prosperity. We work to ensure that decisions made in international forums reflect our national interests and protect them for present and future generations.
Ocean diplomacy
The Cook Islands is a large ocean state. Our ocean space is vast compared with our land area, and through Marae Moana we have committed to managing all of it sustainably. Our ocean diplomacy aims to:
- secure and permanently preserve our maritime zones and boundaries, including against the effects of sea-level rise;
- ensure international decisions on the high seas, the deep seabed and fisheries reflect Cook Islands interests and the principle of equitable benefit;
- bring Cook Islands traditional knowledge and stewardship values into global ocean policy.
Treaties and international engagement
As a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand, the Cook Islands enters into treaties and international agreements in its own right. The Ministry advises Government on negotiation, signature, ratification and accession, and supports agencies to implement and report on our obligations. Current priorities include climate change, ocean governance, human rights and sustainable development negotiations.
We aim for a credible and influential Cook Islands voice in the forums where international rules are made. In practice, that means well-prepared positions, Cook Islands language reflected in outcome documents, and strong partnerships with Pacific and like-minded states.
Treaty Guidelines: Guidance on procedures for concluding international treaties and arrangements provides guidance on treaty processes.
One Government, one voice
Effective international engagement draws on expertise across government. The Ministry works with lead agencies, including those responsible for marine resources, seabed minerals, climate change, maritime, environment, agriculture, health, education, cultural development, human rights, national planning, disaster preparedness and response, as well as other in-country partners such as the Cook Islands Red Cross. The aim is for national positions to be agreed before we go into the room, so the Cook Islands speaks with one voice offshore.
Treaties and agreements
Read about Treaties and Agreements. For the Treaty and Agreement Register, which lists the treaties and agreements to which the Cook Islands is party, contact Foreign Affairs.
Related document: Cook Islands–China Memorandum of Understanding on Deepening Blue Economy Cooperation.
Treaty guidance and enquiries
MFAI advances Cook Islands interests through international negotiations and treaty processes. We work with national agencies to connect this engagement with the country’s development priorities, sovereignty and international responsibilities.
Ocean diplomacy
The Cook Islands’ stewardship of a vast ocean territory gives ocean diplomacy a central place in our work. Our priorities include protecting marine biodiversity, safeguarding maritime interests and supporting fair access to ocean resources. We also advocate for traditional knowledge to inform international ocean policy.
Working across government
Treaty work draws on specialist knowledge across government. Depending on the subject, MFAI leads, coordinates or supports the responsible agency. This includes participation in national arrangements that bring together expertise on oceans, the environment, trade and security.
Treaty enquiries
For information about a particular treaty or agreement, contact Foreign Affairs. Include the name of the instrument and the information you need, such as a copy of the text or clarification of its status.
Explore related work in Treaties, Multilaterals and Oceans.