New Zealand is concerned when the Cook Islands approach China

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on February 10 that it expects “transparency and consultation” with the Cook Islands after Prime Minister Mark Brown will visit China this week to enhance cooperation in development. Country, including areas such as infrastructure, trade and economy.

During the visit, Prime Minister Brown plans to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership with China. What makes New Zealand concerned, because the country has signed a “free cooperation” agreement with the Cook Islands, in which New Zealand will provide US $ 11.3 million financial support to help the island nation. Rehabilitation of post-CIVI-19 economy, as well as support for defense and diplomacy.

The Cook Island is an island nation in the South Pacific, with a population of more than 20,000 people and the mainland area of ​​236.7 km2. The country has recently strengthened economic and diplomatic relations with China.

“According to the Constitutional Agreement between us, we hope the issues of national defense and security will be discussed transparently between partners. That is all we request,” Prime Minister Luxon, Prime Minister Luxon speak.

New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peter also said that the country has repeatedly asked the Cook Islands to consult the content of the intended agreements signed with China, but did not receive adequate feedback.

The leadership of the opposing Democratic Party of the Cook Tina Browne Islands are also skeptical about the publicity of the agreements that Prime Minister Brown plans to sign with China.

“If there is nothing to hide, why don’t we consult with New Zealand,” Browne said.

China has not confirmed the visit of the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, but the Foreign Ministry of this country on February 10 called the Cook Islands “an important partner in the South Pacific”.

“China believes that New Zealand and the Cook Islands are all of its important partners,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said, adding that the relationships with this Pacific nation did not target any aim What third party.