Cook Islands Prime Minister, the Hon. Mark Brown, met with Canadian Prime Minister the Right Hon. Justin Trudeau in the margins of the G7 meeting to announce the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The announcement comes off the back of concerted effort by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) and Canadian officials via their respective missions in Wellington, to formalise the already strong relations between both countries characterised by shared priorities in climate, oceans and upholding the international rules-based order.
“We welcome the establishment of diplomatic relations with Canada and the opportunity to expand and deepen cooperation going forward,” said Prime Minister Brown.
“This marks the 60th country that the Cook Islands has established relations with, and it’s only fitting that it be with a country that aligns itself with priorities that our Pacific region has articulated in our 2050 Blue Pacific Continent Strategy."
"I was heartened by the remarks of Prime Minister Trudeau throughout the G7 sessions - remarks which demonstrated an understanding of the challenges the Pacific face and a commitment to working together to address these," Prime Minister Brown said. "We look forward to increased engagement and partnership in the future.”