The U.S. Department of State announced on August 5, that the United States and the Cook Islands issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to the responsible exploration and study of seabed mineral resources, aligning scientific advancement with economic sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The Cook Islands, located between New Zealand and Hawaii, consists of 15 islands and atolls. It is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand. Under its constitution, the two sides must consult on matters of security, defense, and foreign policy. Earlier this year, without consulting New Zealand, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown approved a cooperation agreement with China. New Zealand subsequently suspended aid to the Cook Islands, stating it would only resume once the latter took “concrete measures” to restore trust.
In recent years, Beijing has signed security, trade, and financial agreements with several Pacific island nations, raising growing concerns among Western countries – traditionally dominant in the Pacific – about China’s plans to expand its influence in the region.
Source: Radio France International, August 6, 2025
https://www.rfi.fr/cn/国际/20250806-美国开始与库克群岛进行海底矿产勘探和开发研究谈判