The Cook Islands is celebrating 60 years of self-government with Prime Minister Mark Brown declaring the country’s intent to step up as a global player, driven by unity and a bold vision for the future.
Delivering his Constitution Day address, Prime Minister Brown outlined the country’s journey from humble beginnings in 1965 to becoming a key voice in Pacific and global affairs, and a model of resilience in the face of economic and environmental challenges.
“As a large ocean state, we are a Pacific nation with a global voice. And we will use that voice to lead with purpose,” Brown declared from the national stage in Rarotonga.
The Prime Minister used the occasion to reflect on decades of international diplomacy and development milestones—highlighting the Cook Islands’ full treaty-making capacity recognised by the United Nations in 1992, its expanding regional and global influence, and its formal diplomatic ties with over 70 countries.
“Our voice matters. Not because of our population size, but because of what we represent. A nation that holds fast to its identity while engaging with the world on its own terms.”
Brown also spoke at length about the transformation of the Cook Islands economy—particularly in recovering from the COVID-19 crisis.
He credited disciplined fiscal management for turning deficits into surpluses and for strengthening the country’s global credit rating.
“This week Standard and Poors… advised me that our country credit rating outlook has moved from stable to positive, and there is potential to be upgraded in the near future from the current B+. This is a great external validation of the work done to rebuild our public finances.”
Tourism, once nearly wiped out during the pandemic, remains central, but the government is now pushing for greater economic diversification—including digital transformation, ocean economy development, and financial services.
“This is what resilience looks like. Not just surviving hardship, but emerging stronger. Choosing reform over retreat.”
Looking forward, Brown said the next 60 years will be shaped by young Cook Islanders—those who are “digitally fluent, globally aware, and firmly grounded in their identity.”
“Our young people are not waiting to be told who they are. They already know. They are leading movements, building businesses, protecting our reo, and shaping their future with creativity and courage.”
He pledged continued investment in infrastructure, education, and economic opportunity, with every island and community playing a part in the nation’s future.
“Let us keep walking forward as one nation. A nation that knows its place. A nation that has a homeland. A nation that carries with it the hopes of those who came before us and the dreams of those yet to come.”
In a surprise announcement, the Prime Minister confirmed the reappointment of Sir Tom Marsters as the King’s Representative for another three years, as the nation also celebrated Sir Tom’s 80th birthday.
“Sir Tom, the breadth and depth of your public service, your wisdom, dignity and grace have been an inspiration to us all.”
The ceremony ended with a standing ovation and a chorus of “Happy Birthday” in tribute to one of the Cook Islands’ longest-serving statesmen.
