Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday reiterated China's position on cooperation with the Cook Islands, stressing that the relationship between China and the Cook Islands is not targeted at any third party, nor should it be subject to interference or restraint by any third party. All countries developing relations with Pacific island countries shall earnestly respect their independence and self-determination, and uphold the primacy of development, openness and inclusiveness.

The remarks were made by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on a regular press conference, when asked by a foreign journalist to comment on a Reuters report claiming that New Zealand and the Cook Islands signed a ‌new defense and security agreement on Thursday, "seeking to reset ties after months of tension over the Cook Islands' dealings with China."

"Cook Islands is an important partner of China in the South Pacific region. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the two sides have always treated each other with mutual respect and equality and pursued common development. We stand ready to deepen practical cooperation with the Cook Islands to continuously improve the well-being of the two peoples," Mao said.

Global Times