China and Cook Islands Foreign Ministers Pledge to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation

In high-level bilateral talks held in Xiamen City on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of leveraging complementary advantages and strengthening cooperation between China and the Cook Islands. Addressing his counterpart, Cook Islands Foreign Minister Tingika Elikana, Wang called for enhanced collaboration in key sectors such as marine resource development and protection, aiming to bolster economic progress and improve livelihoods in the Pacific Island nation.

Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, reaffirmed that the growing relationship between China and the Cook Islands is based on mutual respect, practical assistance, and not targeted at any third party. He stressed that these ties are a clear representation of Global South solidarity, focusing on shared development goals and mutual benefit.

Highlighting Beijing's unwavering support, Wang stated that China consistently backs the Cook Islands’ efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, chart its own development path, and take a more active role in international affairs. “China values its relations with the Cook Islands and is committed to supporting the country’s pursuit of accelerated growth and revitalization,” Wang remarked during the meeting, which took place alongside the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Acknowledging the Cook Islands’ firm adherence to the one-China principle, Wang described China as a trustworthy and reliable partner, expressing readiness to deepen dialogue, enhance strategic trust, and work together on core interests and major concerns. He further emphasized China’s understanding of the unique challenges faced by small island states, particularly around climate change, and voiced willingness to join hands in advancing a fair and effective global climate governance system under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.

In response, Foreign Minister Elikana praised the enduring partnership between the two nations, expressing appreciation for China’s long-term strong support and assistance. He reiterated the Cook Islands’ unwavering commitment to the one-China principle and signaled enthusiasm for expanding mutually beneficial cooperation across diverse fields, with the aim of further advancing bilateral ties.

Elikana also conveyed optimism about the outcomes of the ongoing China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting. He expressed his hope that the gathering would pave the way for deeper cooperation between China and Pacific island nations, ultimately reinforcing solidarity and collective advancement among island countries in the region.