Satisfaction in the distance, concern nearby.

While China is pleased with the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the Cook Islands, it is causing deep concern for the United States, Australia, and especially New Zealand.

The islands are located between the US state of Hawaii and New Zealand. China's strengthening of ties with the Cook Islands is seen as establishing a new outpost for competition for influence and role, as well as for strategic interests in the South Pacific and the Indo-Pacific region as a whole.

Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Mark Brown

For New Zealand, the upgrading of relations between China and the Cook Islands raises concerns that the relationship between New Zealand and the islands may no longer be as close and trustworthy as it once was. The Cook Islands have a very special relationship with New Zealand, with New Zealand committing to guaranteeing their security as well as providing financial assistance to cover their annual budget. The US, Australia, and New Zealand are competing with China for roles and influence in the island nations of the South Pacific . And now the Cook Islands are establishing a very high level of bilateral cooperation with China.

As for China, it is certain that it will allocate significant financial resources to aid and invest in the Cook Islands. Only in this way can China compete for influence with the US, Australia, and New Zealand in the region. This is also a step in implementing its current long-term strategy in the Indo-Pacific. Given the new policies of the US administration, upgrading relations to such a high level with the Cook Islands becomes even more important, valuable, and necessary for China.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/xa-hai-long-gan-quan-ngai-185250216211221711.htm