Fresh from signing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) agreement between the Cook Islands and China, Associate Minister for Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for Ngatangiia, Tukaka Ama, is calling a meeting for his constituency.

The Ngatangiia community meeting will be held on Monday, March 3, at the Avana Sunday School, starting at 6pm.

“I’d like to let the people know what my plans are for the community and what I have in mind moving forward for the people of Ngatangiia,” said Ama.

“This will also give the community the opportunity to ask any questions or raise their concerns on issues. I will answer their questions as best as I can.

“For me, it is only fair that I call this meeting, I’m the elected Member of Parliament and it’s my job to let my community know about what I’m doing, what I’m going to do for them, and why I’m doing it.”

Ama said there are many projects and issues of concern to community members in the village, including the rising sand bank inside Avana Harbour, which is becoming an issue for fishing boats, as well as the rivers, gabions, water intakes and roads.

“You will never satisfy everyone,” said Ama, who is encouraging people who are not happy with what government is doing in the village, to attend the public meeting.

The comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between China and the Cook Islands established a roadmap for bilateral cooperation across various sectors, encompassing areas of mutual concern and shared development priorities.

New Zealand has criticised the Cook Islands’ comprehensive strategic partnership and other agreements signed earlier this month in China, citing a lack of proper consultation. The two countries share a special constitutional relationship.

Questions are expected to be raised at Monday’s meeting regarding the signing. However, Ama noted there are also important village matters to address.