Cook Islands faces backlash over China deal jeopardizing ties with New Zealand

In the Cook Islands, growing protests have erupted in response to a newly announced strategic partnership with China, which covers areas including deep-sea mining and educational scholarships. The deal, revealed in mid-February 2025, raised alarm among local opposition parties and the government of New Zealand, which historically holds constitutional ties to the Cook Islands. Critics of the deal are highlighting a concerning lack of transparency and consultation by the Cook Islands government, particularly as New Zealand was not appropriately informed of these agreements despite its longstanding partnership with the island nation. Prime Minister Mark Brown defended the partnership by claiming it does not replace existing ties with New Zealand, Australia, or other partners, but rather enhances a diversified portfolio of international relationships. This statement came amidst a backdrop of protests in Avarua, where around 400 demonstrators voiced their discontent over the perceived threats to Cook Islands' sovereignty and their relationship with New Zealand. Placards at the protest expressed strong sentiments of maintaining connections with New Zealand, as many Cook Islanders hold New Zealand citizenship. The opposition leader, Tina Browne, emphasized that while there was no objection to seeking international assistance, concerns centered around risking autonomy and close bonds with New Zealand. The strategic partnership deal also includes a one-time grant of approximately $4 million from China for various development initiatives within the Cook Islands, focusing primarily on renewable energy projects. Prime Minister Brown returned from a visit to Beijing, where he secured this deal, but faced criticism for the way it was conducted without involving New Zealand upfront. The lack of prior consultation has become a focal point of the controversy, raising questions about diplomatic norms in the Pacific and the broader ramifications of increasing Chinese influence in the region. As the opposition prepares for a no-confidence vote following the announcement, it is evident that the dynamics of Cook Islands' foreign relations are shifting. The government’s commitment to economic diplomacy through this partnership raises questions regarding the future of its relationships with traditional allies in the Pacific. Both the Cook Islands and New Zealand expect that further discussions will elucidate the implications of the agreement and its broader impact on the geopolitics of the region, particularly as New Zealand seeks guarantees about defense, security arrangements, and transparency in future engagements.