Vienna, Austria – 16 September 2026: The Cook Islands has formally deposited its instrument of acceptance of the 2017 Regional Co-operative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology for Asia and the Pacific (RCA).
The instrument was deposited during the annual Treaty Event held on the margins of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna. The Cook Islands was represented by Ms Sandrina Thondoo, Director of the Treaties, Multilateral and Oceans Division within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration.
The deposit formalises the Cook Islands’ participation as a Government Party to the RCA, following approval by the existing RCA Government Parties.
The Agreement supports the safe, secure and peaceful application of nuclear science and technology, including in areas such as human health, agriculture, water-resource management and environmental protection.
Through the RCA, countries across Asia and the Pacific cooperate on research, development, training and capacity-building. For the Cook Islands, participation will provide greater access to regional expertise, training and technology that can support national development priorities.
Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Ms Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, said:
“For a small island country, regional cooperation gives us access to knowledge and expertise that we cannot develop alone. It also gives the Cook Islands an opportunity to contribute our Pacific perspective and experience to the wider region.”
The Cook Islands will work closely with the IAEA and other RCA Government Parties to strengthen national capacity and ensure its participation in the Agreement delivers practical benefits for Cook Islands communities.
For further information, please contact: [email protected]