The United States announced on Tuesday (August 5) that it has begun negotiations with the government of the Cook Islands to cooperate on deep-sea mineral exploration and development research. This is the latest measure taken by the United States to counter the expansion of the Chinese Communist Party in the Pacific region.
On August 5th, the US government and the government of the Cook Islands issued a joint statement, pledging to advance scientific research and responsible development of deep-sea mineral resources. The statement stated, “The government of the United States has initiated discussions with the government of the Cook Islands to support necessary research and provide information for the exploration and responsible development of deep-sea resources within the Cook Islands’ exclusive economic zone.”
The Cook Islands, located between New Zealand and Hawaii, consist of 15 islands and atolls. This Pacific island nation has become a focal point of contention between Western democratic countries and the Chinese Communist Party.
In February of this year, the Cook Islands signed an agreement with China covering cooperation in multiple areas, including education, economy, infrastructure, fisheries, disaster management, and deep-sea mining. This move by the Cook Islands has raised concerns about national security in New Zealand.
In June, the New Zealand government suspended several million dollars in budget assistance to the Cook Islands.
Since 1901, the Cook Islands have been a territory of New Zealand; they began self-governance in 1965 but maintain a free association with New Zealand.
The Cook Islands have their own government, and residents hold New Zealand citizenship and passports, allowing them to work, study, and access the healthcare system in New Zealand.
In the joint statement issued on Tuesday, the United States and the government of the Cook Islands emphasized the critical importance of deep-sea minerals for the development and enhancement of current and future technologies.
The statement said, “The Cook Islands possess vast marine natural resources, while the United States has expertise in marine research and technology. By leveraging each other’s advantages, both parties can collaborate to ensure that the exploration and development of deep-sea mineral resources adhere to rigorous standards and best practices.”