Ministry of Foreign Affairs: The relationship between China and the Cook Islands is not aimed at third parties and should not be subject to interference or restrictions by third parties.

According to Reuters, New Zealand and the Cook Islands signed a new defense and security agreement on Thursday (April 2), aimed at restarting ties between the two countries. Previously, relations between New Zealand and the Cook Islands had remained tense for several months due to an agreement signed between the Cook Islands and China. Regarding this development, at a routine press conference of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs held on April 2, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, when responding to a foreign reporter’s question on “what China has to say about this,” said that the Cook Islands are an important cooperative partner of China in the South Pacific region. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, and developed together. China is willing to deepen practical cooperation with the Cook Islands and continuously enhance the well-being of the people of both countries. Mao Ning said that China’s relationship with the Cook Islands is not targeted at any third party, nor should it be interfered with or constrained by any third party. The development of relations between countries and Pacific island nations should genuinely respect the independence and self-determination of island countries, and adhere to a development-first approach with openness and inclusiveness. (Global Times)