Prime Minister, the Honourable Mark Brown, will undertake a State Visit to China from 10 – 14 February, reinforcing the Cook Islands’ commitment to diversified international partnerships that support national development.
At the invitation of the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Prime Minister Brown will be joined by the Honourable Tukaka Ama, Associate Minister for Foreign Affairs & Immigration and Finance & Economic Management, alongside senior officials.
This marks the first State Visit by a Cook Islands Prime Minister to China in the last decade and presents an opportunity to enhance cooperation across key sectors, including trade, investment and tourism; infrastructure; climate resilience and renewable energy; agriculture; maritime and oceans, including shipping and seabed minerals development.
Prime Minister Brown emphasised that this visit is part of a broader strategy to engage with and strengthen relations with all key partners; including New Zealand, Australia, and China, to advance the Cook Islands’ national interests.
“The Cook Islands remains committed to strong relationships with all our partners. This visit is about expanding economic opportunities while ensuring our sovereignty and national interests remain at the forefront. Our approach to foreign policy is clear—we engage openly and transparently to secure the best outcomes for our people,” said Prime Minister Brown.
Having formalised diplomatic relations 28 years ago, the Cook Islands and China continue to cultivate a partnership centred on mutual respect and sustainable development. During this visit, Prime Minister Brown and his delegation will meet with key Chinese government representatives to discuss current and future areas of cooperation. A Joint Action Plan for Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will be agreed upon, serving as a framework for engagement and a roadmap for collaboration in the years ahead.
As the Cook Islands celebrates 60 years of self-governance, this visit highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing economic resilience, creating opportunities for Cook Islanders, and ensuring strong partnerships that respect the nation’s sovereignty.
ENDS
This is a joint media release from OPM and MFAI
For media inquiries, please contact:
Office of the Prime Minister, Cook Islands
Annique Davis – annique.davis@cookislands.gov.ck
