Cook Islands Prime Minister this week met with Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy in Sydney to strengthen bilateral ties and push forward shared regional priorities.
“Our meeting was productive, respectful, and grounded in the shared values that unite our two nations across the Blue Pacific Continent,” the Prime Minister said in a statement following the talks.
Key outcomes of the meeting included support for Australia’s bid to host a future Pacific COP, a move the Prime Minister called “a vital platform to ensure Pacific voices are leading the global climate agenda.”
The leaders also marked the return of Te Kukupa II to the Cook Islands, a patrol boat gifted by Australia. The vessel was described as “a symbol of our enduring partnership and commitment to protecting our ocean territory.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the role of increased air connectivity and rising Australian visitor numbers in supporting the Cook Islands’ tourism-driven economic recovery.
“As we mark 60 years of self-governance this year, our focus remains clear: resilience, regional unity, and strategic partnerships that serve the best interests of our people,” he said.
“Meitaki ma’ata to Minister Conroy and the Australian Government for their ongoing commitment to the Pacific. Together, we continue to chart a course toward a stronger, more sustainable future,” said PM Brown.
