Prime Minister Mark Brown has reaffirmed that the Cook Islands’ relationship with Aotearoa New Zealand ‘remains enduring, grounded in shared history, values, and mutual benefit.’
Brown, who is currently in New Zealand, reiterated that the central purpose of his visit is to reconnect with Cook Islanders abroad and strengthen the enduring ‘relationship with New Zealand.
This is the Prime Minister’s first major visit with the government delegation, including the new secretary for Foreign Affairs, Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, since the diplomatic fallout between the two countries.
Speaking in Wellington on Tuesday, Brown said, “This is a relationship we value deeply. It is one we have freely chosen, and one we remain committed to strengthening.”
He acknowledged that, like any long-standing relationship, there are moments that require reflection, and stressed that current engagements focus on ensuring the relationship continues to evolve in a way that reflects the maturity and aspirations of both countries.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined a forward-focused agenda centred on economic resilience, diversification, and responsible development.
Details on whether PM Brown would meet with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and/or Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters during the visit are unclear.
In a previous article, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) stated, “The Cook Islands has consistently sought constructive engagement with New Zealand at all levels. Officials remain in regular contact, and we welcome opportunities for dialogue. As with all partners, discussions often take place privately.”
NZ PM Luxon was in Samoa this week and indicated he ‘won’t be’ meeting PM Brown.
“Obviously, I am travelling, but we’ve got ongoing conversations with the Cook Islands, and we’re hoping we can get those results at some point,” Luxon had said.
Diplomatic tensions began in late 2024 and became public after the Cook Islands signed a comprehensive strategic partnership and other agreements with China in February last year.
New Zealand cited a lack of consultation regarding the deals with China and subsequently suspended NZ$29.8 million (US$17.55 million) in funding.
Meanwhile, in Wellington, speaking to key stakeholders, partners, and members of the Cook Islands community in Aotearoa New Zealand, Prime Minister Brown said, “This moment is about reflecting on how far we have come, and being clear about where we are going.”
The OPM, in a statement, said, anchored in the national theme Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku, the Prime Minister’s address focused on identity, unity, and the shared responsibility of shaping the country’s future.
He emphasised that culture and faith remain the foundation of Cook Islands leadership and development, guiding decision-making and strengthening resilience in a changing global environment.
“Our culture is not something we leave behind. It is what carries us forward,” Brown said.
A key focus of the address was the role of the Cook Islands diaspora, particularly the more than 90,000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand.
The Prime Minister highlighted their contribution to both countries and reinforced their place at the centre of the nation’s future.
“When our people move abroad, our nation does not diminish. It grows,” he said.
He also spoke about the Cook Islands’ journey since 1965, from a small island state to a large oceanic state with an increasing global presence, underpinned by strong governance, international partnerships, and sustained economic progress.
He pointed to major national milestones, including the establishment of maritime boundaries, leadership in ocean stewardship, and the country’s graduation to high-income status in 2020, as evidence of a nation that has taken control of its own path.
He outlined a forward-focused agenda centred on economic resilience, diversification, and responsible development.
Brown has called for continued unity across the global Cook Islands community, encouraging all Cook Islanders to remain connected and engaged as the country moves into its next phase.
“The next chapter of our story will be written by all of us, at home and abroad,” he said.
“Let us go forward together with confidence, grounded in who we are, and clear in where we are heading,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cook Islands PM Mark Brown and New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters held an informal discussion at Peters’ private residence in Auckland on Friday.
Winston Peters has met “informally” with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown at Peters’ home in Auckland.
In a joint statement, they said they discussed “fundamental challenges facing the New Zealand-Cook Islands relationship over the past 18 months” though there appeared to be no resolutions.
“Political dialogue between the two countries will continue in the coming weeks in order to determine whether these challenges can be resolved in the present circumstances,” it stated.
“In the meantime, the Governments of the Cook Islands and New Zealand will not be providing further comment.”
