The Government of the Cook Islands remains firmly commitment to the Paris Agreement and the global effort to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), our nation’s future depends on robust and collective global climate action.
The recent withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement is a significant development that presents both challenges and opportunities for the international climate agenda. While we acknowledge the US government’s position of prioritising its national interests, we urge continued global cooperation to address the pressing climate crisis.
A unified Pacific voice for climate action
The Cook Islands will work closely with regional and international partners; including the Pacific Islands Forum, the European Union, China, and others, to maintain momentum toward ambitious climate goals. A weakening of global leadership in climate negotiations should not deter progress. Instead, it reinforces the need for increased regional collaboration and stronger commitments from all stakeholders.
Strengthening climate finance and economic resilience
The Cook Islands has long relied on climate financing mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to implement critical adaptation and mitigation initiatives. We call on the global community to step up and fill any funding gaps left by the US withdrawal. Our government will proactively seek alternative financing mechanisms through strengthened cooperation with multilateral organisations and development partners.
Additionally, we remain committed to our renewable energy transition and responsible seabed mineral exploration, recognising their strategic significance for both our national interests and the broader Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to engage with US agencies and private sector stakeholders to ensure the continuity of support for these projects, framing our discussions around shared economic and strategic benefits.
Constructive engagement with the United States
Despite the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, we remain committed to working constructively with the United States on areas of mutual interest. Climate resilience, sustainable economic development, and regional security remain key areas for collaboration. We encourage the US to maintain its leadership in Pacific initiatives and to support regional efforts in ways that align with its broader Indo-Pacific agenda.
Moving forward with determination and unity
The Cook Islands will not waver in its commitment to being a global leader in climate action. While the US withdrawal is a setback to multilateral cooperation, it does not weaken our resolve. With our Pacific neighbours and international partners, we will continue to champion policies that protect our people, our economy, and our environment.
Our message is clear: the Cook Islands will stand firm in its climate commitments, advocate for increased global support, and work collaboratively to build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
