New Zealand and the Cook Islands have signed a new defence and security declaration, easing tensions after a year-long diplomatic dispute linked to the Cook Islands’ engagement with China.

The agreement reaffirms obligations between New Zealand and the Cook Islands to consult on defence and security, following concerns raised in 2025 over transparency surrounding a China partnership.

Winston Peters, New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, said the declaration provides clarity in a “more complex and contested” strategic environment, while the Cook Islands’ Prime Minister Mark Brown described it as a step towards “moving forward”.

• New Zealand had paused around NZ$29.8m in annual funding; support will now resume.

• The Cook Islands’ China agreements, including deep-sea mining cooperation, had raised regional concern.

• The new declaration commits both sides to act in good faith and consult regularly.

Brown said ties with China remain unchanged, while Peters indicated previous concerns had been resolved.

ℹ️ The Guardian

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