Cook Islands Prime Minister Pursues Strategic Partnership with China

Mark Brown's visit to China includes discussions on marine research, climate resilience, and economic cooperation, raising concerns in New Zealand over lack of consultation.

• Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown is on a week-long visit to China, the first by a leader of the Pacific nation in a decade.
• Brown is expected to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, focusing on infrastructure, trade, and economic collaboration.
• Discussions during the visit have explored marine research, climate resilience, and aquaculture opportunities with Chinese institutions.
• The visit has drawn criticism from New Zealand, which was not consulted about the agreements despite its constitutional ties with the Cook Islands.
• Brown has reassured Cook Islands citizens that all agreements are guided by the nation's best interests, while a no-confidence motion has been filed against him domestically.

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South China Morning Post