China Expands Its Influence in the South Pacific: Cook Islands Sign Strategic Partnership
Cook Islands and China Forge Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
China is expanding its influence in the South Pacific region, as evidenced by a recent agreement with the Cook Islands to bolster bilateral cooperation in various sectors. The agreement was announced during a five-day state visit by the Cook Islands Prime Minister, Mark Brown, to the People’s Republic of China.
During the visit, Brown and Chinese Premier Li Qiang signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership action plan," which establishes a framework for cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, and transportation. Brown stated that the agreement will allow the Cook Islands to explore deep-sea mineral resources in collaboration with Chinese institutions, as the Pacific nation seeks to advance deep-sea mining.
China Strengthens Political Ties with Cook Islands
Premier Li emphasized that the agreement will strengthen "mutual political trust" between China and the Cook Islands, fostering broader practical cooperation. The move has drawn concern from New Zealand, which has historically maintained close ties with the Cook Islands.
New Zealand Expresses Concerns
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and consultation surrounding the agreement. It stated that the deal raises "significant concerns." In response, Brown announced that the agreement would be made public and emphasized that cooperation with Beijing complements existing partnerships and is not intended to replace New Zealand’s long-standing relationship with the Cook Islands.
Cook Islands’ Historical Ties with Neuseeland
The Cook Islands, with a population of approximately 17,000, were a British protectorate from 1888 to 1900 before becoming part of New Zealand. Even after gaining independence in 1965, the island nation remained closely intertwined with New Zealand politically, with the latter handling its foreign affairs. Cook Islanders are granted the right to live and work in New Zealand.
China’s Growing Influence in the Pacific
China has been actively seeking to expand its influence in the Pacific region, challenging the historically dominant presence of Australia, New Zealand, and their ally, the United States. The signing of the strategic partnership agreement with the Cook Islands is the latest example of China’s efforts to assert itself in this strategically important region, which has been traditionally dominated by Western powers.
Conclusion
The agreement between China and the Cook Islands highlights the growing presence of China in the South Pacific. While New Zealand has expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and potential implications for regional stability, the partnership underscores China’s commitment to expanding its influence in the Pacific, a move that may reshape geopolitical dynamics in the future. It remains to be seen how these developments will impact the existing alliances and power structures in the region.