The Cook Islands highly values New Zealand’s development assistance over many years. We deeply appreciate that support and reaffirm our commitment to restoring the high-trust relationship that has benefitted both peoples.
That there has been a breakdown and difference in the interpretation of the consultation requirements committed to by the two governments in the 2001 Joint Centenary Declaration (JCD) is an issue that the Cook Islands is determined to address as a matter of urgency. Constructive dialogue is ongoing, and the Cook Islands remain committed to engaging closely with New Zealand to understand where their concerns lie and how they can be addressed.
2025 marks a significant milestone for our nation. On 4 August, we will celebrate 60 years of self-determination. Sixty years of building a nation that stands proud in its Christian faith, its ocean stewardship, its economic resilience, social cohesion, and rich cultural heritage. We thank all our international partners who have supported us through this journey and look forward to celebrating this milestone together.
A cornerstone of our voyage to statehood is our relationship of free association with New Zealand. This relationship grounded in Maori kinship ties, history, culture, citizenship, and mutual respect, has evolved over the decades into the unique bond that exists today. A partnership that has brought many benefits for the people of New Zealand and the people of the Cook Islands. A partnership that the Cook Islands remain fully committed to.
The Cook Islands-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership – Joint Action Plan signed in February 2025 contains no security or defence arrangements. It is non-binding and focused on the Cook Islands climate and economic resilience, sustainable development, and marine science. The Cook Islands has consistently stressed that New Zealand remains our closest partner for security and defence and that position remains unchanged.
The Cook Islands understands that repairing a high trust relationship requires considered dialogue from both partners and a preparedness to consider each others core interests and concerns. To better understand New Zealand’s security concerns regarding the China agreements, the Cook Islands and New Zealand Governments have established a Formal Dialogue Mechanism. The mechanism has met twice, in April and May and has made progress in identifying risk mitigation in regard to the agreements. Progressing the mechanism is a high priority for the Cook Islands who are committed to engaging closely with New Zealand’s to agree risk mitigation commitments so development funding can resume.
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