New Zealand Suspends NZ$18.2 Million Funding to Cook Islands Over February China Deals, Citing Consultation Concerns

New Zealand has suspended NZ$18.2 million (approximately $11 million) in budget aid to the Cook Islands following the latter's signing of strategic partnership agreements with China without prior consultation. The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation in free association with New Zealand that relies on it for defense and foreign affairs, agreed to cooperation deals with China in February, including on seabed resource development. New Zealand's Foreign Minister's office expressed concerns over the "breadth and content" of these agreements and stated that further funding will remain on hold until the Cook Islands take concrete steps to repair the relationship and restore trust. The move reflects New Zealand's increasing caution regarding China's growing presence in the Pacific region. The Cook Islands have committed to discussions with New Zealand to resume funding. This development occurs amid deteriorating relations between the two constitutionally linked countries and highlights the geopolitical tensions in the Pacific involving China’s expanding influence.