Cook Islands announces deep sea minerals deal with China
Cook Islands announces deep sea minerals deal with China
The Cook Islands has announced five-year agreement with China for the exploration of seabed minerals. New Zealand has urged the self-governing nation to keep to its "free association" relationship with Wellington.
Summary
The Cook Islands signed a five-year agreement with China for deep-sea mineral exploration, sparking concerns in New Zealand.
The deal focuses on research, technology transfer, and logistics but does not grant mining rights.
New Zealand criticized the Cook Islands for not consulting Wellington, emphasizing their constitutional ties.
The announcement comes amid broader regional concerns over China’s growing influence, with New Zealand, Australia, and the U.S. closely monitoring Beijing’s activities in the Pacific.