New Zealand voices ‘concern’ as Cook Islands seeks partnership with China

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, expressed significant concern over the Cook Islands’ upcoming state visit to Beijing and the signing of a “joint action plan” for a “comprehensive strategic partnership” with China.
The Cook Islands’ Prime Minister, Mark Brown, is expected to finalize the deal during his visit next week.
New Zealand criticized the Cook Islands for failing to consult with them on the agreement, citing concerns about potential strategic and security implications.

Cook Islands’ Relationship with New Zealand:

The Cook Islands is a small, self-governing Pacific nation with a “free association” arrangement with New Zealand.
The people of the Cook Islands hold New Zealand citizenship, and New Zealand provides significant financial, military and diplomatic support to the country.
As part of their relationship, New Zealand has emphasized the importance of being consulted on any agreements the Cook Islands might enter into that have significant strategic and security implications.

China’s Influence in the Pacific:

China’s expanding influence in the Pacific region has raised concerns among traditional Western powers like New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.
China’s increasing involvement in Pacific nations, through economic aid and diplomatic relations, is seen as a challenge to the regional dominance of these countries.

About Cook Islands:

The Cook Islands is an island country in Polynesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean.
They are a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand, meaning they have their own government but rely on New Zealand for defence and foreign affairs.
Capital: Avarua, located on Rarotonga, the largest island in the group.