Cook Islands' Pact with China Sparks Concern Among Allies as Western Influence Wanes

The Growing Concerns over Cook Islands' Ties with China

Date: October 2023

In light of significant developments regarding the Cook Islands’ diplomatic relationships, tensions have risen between traditional allies and emerging powers. A defense analyst, Euan Graham from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, emphasizes that these events are a critical litmus test for the diplomatic responses of both Australia and New Zealand towards China.

The Cook Islands has held a free association relationship with New Zealand since the 1960s. This arrangement means that while New Zealand guides the Cook Islands on defense and foreign affairs, Cook Islanders enjoy the privileges of New Zealand citizenship. However, recent agreements between the Cook Islands and China have raised eyebrows.

China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, defended Beijing's actions in response to growing criticisms, stating that they were entirely appropriate, and he has no plans to apologize. The agreements signed encompass a range of sectors including infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, technology, and crucially, deep-sea mineral exploration.

Australia's Stance on International Law

Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has been vocal in asserting that no international laws were breached during these developments, emphasizing that military drills were conducted in international waters. The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by the chaotic global dynamics instigated by former President Donald Trump, whose policies have led to unpredictable ally relationships, as pointed out by Mihai Sora from the Lowy Institute.

New Zealand's connection with the Cook Islands has historical and cultural roots, as many of its Māori citizens, known as Aotearoa, share ancestral ties with the Cook Islanders. Now, however, New Zealand has voiced feelings of being caught off-guard concerning the new agreements with China, which have sparked protests in the Cook Islands. Prime Minister Mark Brown of the Cook Islands has faced a vote of no confidence in parliament, yet he managed to retain his position.

The Rising Influence of China

In recent years, China's influence in the Pacific region has surged, underscored by its involvement in various strategic partnerships including security deals with the Solomon Islands and providing medical assistance in Tonga. Ms. Tuara, a Cook Island activist, articulated that countries with similar democratic principles should band together, reinforcing the enduring ideals of governance and cooperation.

However, Prime Minister Brown has entered into agreements with China without significant public consultation or prior discussion with New Zealand, leading to growing local dissatisfaction and trepidation about these shifts. These pacts represent a departure from previous diplomatic norms, introducing a new ally into the equation.

Brown defends his initiatives by stating that they align with the long-term needs of the Cook Islands, which face challenges related to climate change and resource management. Jackie Tuara, a prominent voice from the Cook Islands community, highlighted the necessity of considering these changes carefully, as they could reshape the nation’s future.

Philipp Ivanov, a China expert, concurs with Brown by recognizing the agency and autonomy inherent in Pacific island nations. While the United States historically dominated the security landscape of the region, China's outreach through aid and infrastructure initiatives marks a significant shift in dynamics.

Conclusion: Navigating a New Geopolitical Landscape

As these developments unfold, the Cook Islands’ government is tasked with striking a balance between nurturing relationships with traditional allies like New Zealand and Australia and exploring new opportunities with rising powers like China. The recent grassroots protests signify that Cook Islanders are increasingly attentive to their country's political landscape and the international alliances being forged. How these relationships evolve will be pivotal not only for the Cook Islands but for the broader Pacific region.