The Cook Islands, a small yet resource-rich nation in the Pacific, has stirred discontent among its traditional allies following a series of agreements with China. Prime Minister Mark Brown’s recent deals, which encompass various sectors including infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, technology, education, and significant deep-sea mineral exploration, were made without prior public consultation or notification to New Zealand, a close ally.
These agreements represent the Cook Islands’ first foray into formal partnerships with a nation outside its conventional sphere of influence. In defense of his actions, Brown stated that his decisions are driven by the “long-term interests” of the Cook Islands, which faces challenges due to its isolation, resource scarcity, and vulnerability to climate change.
Growing tensions and protests
Despite Brown’s assurances, the recent developments have led to protests on Rarotonga, the largest island in the Cook Islands, and a parliamentary vote of no confidence against him, which he narrowly survived. The friction has also raised alarm in Australia, another significant ally, prompting New Zealand to express that it felt “blindsided” by the agreements.
Brown maintains that the Cook Islands’ sovereignty allows it to independently pursue international relations without needing to consult Wellington, asserting that these agreements do not diminish the importance of their ties with New Zealand and Australia. However, this perceived slight occurs during a period marked by a noticeable decline in Western influence in the Pacific region.
The expanding footprint of China is well-documented, as illustrated by its recent security deals with countries such as the Solomon Islands and its increasing humanitarian efforts in Tonga. The United States and its allies have been making concerted efforts to counterbalance this growing presence.
A shift in regional dynamics
The Cook Islands has enjoyed a “free association” relationship with New Zealand since the 1960s, wherein New Zealand extends support in defense and foreign affairs, and Cook Islanders benefit from New Zealand citizenship. The cultural and familial ties between the two nations are profound, with a significant population of Cook Islanders residing in New Zealand and Australia.
Recent actions by Brown, including his withdrawal of a proposal for a Cook Islands passport, reveal a desire to distance the nation from New Zealand. At a protest against the agreements with China, local resident Jackie Tuara emphasized the historical ties, stating, “The relationship with NZ connects us politically and connects us to our brothers and sisters of Aotearoa. We need to remember that.” Demonstrators expressed their desire to maintain close links with New Zealand, highlighting their concerns over the future of local resources.
Nevertheless, there is considerable support for Brown’s approach among some segments of the Cook Islands population. Experts, such as China specialist Philipp Ivanov, argue that the Pacific nations have their own agency and should pursue their interests independently, framing the Cook Islands’ recent moves as part of a broader geopolitical contest involving Australia, China, and New Zealand.
Given the complex geopolitical landscape and the shifting dynamics of international relations in the Pacific, the Cook Islands’ pivot towards China represents both opportunities and challenges. The response from traditional allies will likely continue to shape the political climate in the region as nations navigate the reality of a multipolar world.