Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 13 July 2026 – The Cook Islands recently welcomed H.E. Laurence Beau, Ambassador of France to the Cook Islands, during her final official visit before concluding her tenure. The visit also included a delegation of French Senators, Mr Christophe-Andre Frassa, Chair of the France-Vanuatu-Pacific Islands States Interparliamentary Friendship Group, and Mr Guy Benarroche, Vice-Chair of the France-Vanuatu-Pacific Islands States Interparliamentary Friendship Group. The visit marked the first official visit by members of the French Senate to the Cook Islands.
"France has been a longstanding and valued partner of the Cook Islands, and we are grateful for the cooperation that continues to advance our shared priorities. We were honoured to welcome the French Senate delegation and to thank Ambassador Beau for her dedication and contribution to our bilateral relationship during her tenure," said Secretary Wright-Koteka.
The delegation met with Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Albert Nicholas and Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Ms Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, reaffirming the longstanding partnership between the Cook Islands and France and exchanging views on regional and international priorities.
Discussions covered climate change, ocean governance, maritime, renewable energy, parliamentary diplomacy, cooperation with French Polynesia and France's support in the Pacific.
"Our discussions highlighted the value of strong partnerships in addressing the opportunities and challenges facing our Blue Pacific region. Continued dialogue with France enables us to work together in pursuit of practical outcomes that benefit our peoples and our region," said Secretary Wright-Koteka.
The Cook Islands looks forward to continuing its valued relationship with France and building on the strong partnership between our two countries. The Ministry extends its best wishes to Ambassador Beau as she concludes her tenure and embarks on the next stage of her career.
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