Chinese premier meets with Cook Islands prime minister to 'deepen political trust'

Moving to China, and a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown on Friday, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation, between the two nations.

The Cook Islands said Saturday that it signed a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' deal with China, during the discussions in Harbin.

Premier Li emphasized China's commitment to deepening political mutual trust with the Cook Islands.

He proposed aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with the Cook Islands' development strategies, to enhance collaboration in various sectors, including maritime infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, and cultural exchanges.

Prime Minister Brown acknowledged the nearly three-decade-long friendship between the two states and reaffirmed the Cook Islands' adherence to the one-China policy, while assuring that relations with China do not impinge on longstanding ties with New Zealand.