The comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between the Cook Islands and China will be signed this Friday (Thursday, Cook Islands time).

This was confirmed by the Office of the Prime Minister after it released initial details of Cook Islands’ talks with China this week.

Prime Minister Mark Brown and his delegation are in China for a state visit from February 10–14.

Cook Islands will sign a Joint Action Plan for Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with China during this visit. The agreement has drawn criticism from New Zealand, with which the country shares a special constitutional relationship, and Cook Islanders due to a lack of consultation.

A spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister said the signing of the agreement will take place on Friday, and more details will be released soon.

Revealing the first details of his visit, Brown said: “This is an important journey for the Cook Islands, and I look forward to sharing more in the coming days as we finalise key agreements.”

Brown said as he and his delegation progress through this state visit, “I want to take a moment to reflect on what we have achieved so far and the exciting opportunities ahead for the Cook Islands”.

The Prime Minister said they have engaged in critical discussions with leading institutions in marine science, climate resilience and economic cooperation.

These conversations have opened the door to new areas of collaboration, including:

• Expanding our marine research capabilities through partnerships with the China Ocean Sample Repository and the National Deep Sea Centre, bringing new expertise to our ongoing efforts in deep-sea exploration and sustainable ocean management.

• Exploring aquaculture opportunities with Qingdao Frontier Ocean Seed Company, with a focus on developing sustainable aquaculture in the Pa Enua, strengthening the pearl farming industry through breeding programs, and advancing oyster and clam propagation suited to our lagoon temperatures.
• Enhancing our national climate resilience efforts, particularly in weather forecasting and climate change adaptation, through cooperation with global experts.

Brown said: “I know there has been strong interest in the outcomes of this visit, and I want to reassure our people that every conversation is being guided by what is best for the Cook Islands – ensuring that our partnerships support economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national sovereignty.”

“Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) and the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) will provide further updates today on the details of our meetings, including specific opportunities in the blue economy, scientific research, and trade development.”