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2mo ago

Cook Islands PM Survives No-Confidence Vote Over China Deal

Prime Minister Mark Brown defends a controversial partnership with China as New Zealand raises concerns over transparency and regional ties.

Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Mark Brown speaks during the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit at United Nations headquarters in New York City, New York, U.S., September 18, 2023. REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs
Cook Islands PM Mark Brown survived a no-confidence vote sparked by a partnership deal he signed with China
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Overview

  • Prime Minister Mark Brown retained his position after a 13-9 no-confidence vote in the Cook Islands Parliament, with two members abstaining.
  • The vote was triggered by opposition to a strategic partnership with China, which includes funding for education, infrastructure, and seabed mining projects.
  • New Zealand criticized the Cook Islands' lack of transparency in negotiating the deal, citing potential risks to their longstanding constitutional ties.
  • Brown argued that his government consulted New Zealand for months and emphasized the importance of pursuing partnerships that benefit Cook Islanders.
  • The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation with free association to New Zealand, continues to face tensions over balancing its relationships with Beijing and Wellington.