By Wu Qiaoxi | 2025-02-21

Observers say a recent agreement between the Cook Islands and China may bring a number of negative security consequences to the region, and even pave the way for controversial deep-sea mining projects.

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown on February 10-14 visited China, signing the "Joint Action Plan on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" agreement to enhance Sino-Cook Islands relations and to obtain a one-time grant of $4 million from China.

The deal, which the Cook Islands made without prior consultation with New Zealand, has sparked "serious concerns" in New Zealand, shaking the long-standing special relationship between the two countries.

Defending the agreement, Brown urged his country to "stand on its own two feet" instead of relying on "big brother" New Zealand.

The Cook Islands used to be a territory of New Zealand and maintains a "free association" relationship with New Zealand that grants it autonomy in internal and foreign affairs while relying on New Zealand for financial and defense support.

The capital of Avarua saw protests on February 17 in support of remaining in free association with New Zealand, and opposition party members have filed a motion of no confidence against Brown. The vote will occur after February 25.

'Caught off guard'

Historically, the Cook Islands has coordinated closely with New Zealand on international affairs, especially security and diplomatic decisions.

However, Brown's government signed the agreement with China directly without prior consultation, taking New Zealand by surprise.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the importance of discussing defense and security issues transparently.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Winston Peters admitted that he was "caught off guard" by recent developments.

According to a report by the Washington Post, New Zealand officials expressed concerns over deep-sea mining, port construction and maritime security, potentially affecting security cooperation between New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

One official even warned that Chinese military institutions might infiltrate New Zealand's strategic interests.

The Cook Islands government has been evaluating the extraction of seabed nodules rich in nickel, cobalt and other metals, which are resources considered crucial for the new energy industry. During the visit, the Brown government discussed deep-sea mining with Chinese agencies.

These nodules are potato-sized and easily extracted and could reduce dependence on fossil fuels, say advocates.

However, environmental groups and scientists warn that deep-sea mining could devastate marine ecosystems and even exacerbate climate change. Some nations have called for a global moratorium or ban on deep-sea mining to prevent irreversible impacts on the environment.

Chinese influence

Since signing a security agreement with the Solomon Islands in 2022, China has rapidly expanded its influence in the South Pacific, challenging the traditional dominance of the United States, New Zealand and Australia.

China's financial support has long penetrated the Cook Islands.

According to the Australian think tank Lowy Institute, between 2008 and 2022, the Cook Islands received $112 million in aid from China, second only to $219 million from New Zealand.

Nowadays, with China's additional $4 million grant to the Cook Islands, Sino-Cook Islands ties are further strengthened.

In an article for The Diplomat, political scientist Anne-Marie Brady of the University of Canterbury warned that the new deal carries significant implications for Pacific security, particularly for New Zealand, the United States and Australia.

She described it as a "frog in the pot" moment for New Zealand, which, for years, had encouraged China's involvement in the region.