A delegation from the People’s Republic of China visited Rarotonga last week with the aim of strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing the various areas of cooperation between the Cook Islands and China.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) welcomed the official delegation led by Dr Zhaoxu Ma, Executive Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Xiaolong Wang, People’s Republic of China Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Cook Islands. They were in the country from December 17-18.

According to MFAI, Executive Vice Minister Ma engaged in high-level discussions with the Cook Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Tingika Elikana, supported by senior officials from MFAI and the Ministry of Marine Resources.

Bilateral discussions focused on forward cooperation between both countries, including affirming commitment towards progressing a Comprehensive Statement of Partnership Agreement led by the respective Foreign Ministries to cover a range of areas of cooperation.

Discussions explored opportunities for trade and investment, potential partnerships for tourism, agriculture, fisheries and maritime cooperation, all of which contribute to the Cook Islands sustainable development and the well-being of our people.

Minister Elikana emphasised the Cook Islands’ focus on sustainable development and environmental protection. Vice Minister Ma reaffirmed China’s support for the Cook Islands in achieving our development goals, particularly in areas such as climate change resilience and sustainable resource management, the statement said.

“This was a welcome opportunity to meet with Executive Vice Minister Ma and Ambassador Wang. The Cook Islands and China share a rich history of friendship and cooperation, over its 27 years of formal diplomatic relations. In a rapidly changing world, it is essential that the Cook Islands continue to collaborate with genuine development partners like China to drive growth and socio-economic sustainability for both nations,” said Minister Elikana.

Sandrina Thondoo, acting MFAI Secretary and director of the Treaties, Multilaterals and Oceans Division, added: “The Ministry looks forward to building on these fruitful discussions, which will pave the way for stronger partnership between the Cook Islands and China.”

The Cook Islands and China engage through the respective Missions in Wellington, New Zealand.