Overview

• 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.