Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) Secretary, Tepaeru Herrmann, met with Her Excellency Laurence Beau, Ambassador of the French Republic to the Cook Islands, at MFAI offices yesterday.

The meeting coincided with a significant shared legacy of the Armistice of 1918.

On the morning of November 11 in Compiegne, France, an armistice was reached between the Allies and Germany, declaring a cessation of hostilities on the western front effective the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month which finally brought the battles of the First World War (1914-1918) to an end.

The discussions covered wide-ranging topics, underscoring both countries' commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation and supporting regional integration and stability through economic resilience strengthening efforts.

Secretary Herrmann congratulated France, on its successful hosting of the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and commended the Olympics extension of hosting to French Polynesia for Surfing. The two discussed preparations underway for the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, which France will co-host with Costa Rica in Nice on June 9–13.

The discussions also highlighted shared priorities, including climate action and the importance of ensuring international support towards Pacific climate adaptation and resilience strengthening efforts reached Pacific communities at the frontlines of climate change impact.

They also talked about maritime security, humanitarian assistance disaster response, and air links, trade, and investment expansion, particularly between the Cook Islands and French Polynesia. They further discussed regional developments, including the recent Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Troika Plus mission involving Prime Minister Brown to New Caledonia. Following their discussions, Secretary Herrmann and Ambassador Beau joined the Returned Services Association (RSA) for the Remembrance Day Service. There they laid wreaths to honour the Cook Islands soldiers who served in France during the First World War. 

Secretary Herrmann says: “Our shared legacy through Cook Islands contributions to the allies’ efforts during World War I and the values and ideals they stand for continue to shape our present day partnership with France. Our oceans, air, maritime, and people to people connections provide a solid foundation upon which to further grow our partnership in the months ahead.” MFAI