New Zealand Suspends Nearly $30 Million in Aid to Cook Islands
Months of talks aimed at restoring New Zealand’s relationship with the Cook Islands have ended unsuccessfully. New Zealand has paused two years' worth of aid payments, totaling approximately $29.8 million, reflecting a sharp decline in their political ties.
Background of the Aid Suspension
In June, Foreign Minister Winston Peters halted $18.2 million in funding after the Cook Islands signed several controversial agreements with China without consulting New Zealand, a requirement as a realm country.
Official Communication
1News obtained a letter dated October 13 from Peters addressed to Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown. The letter confirms the continued suspension of the $18.2 million funding along with an additional payment due around the same period, bringing the total amount suspended to $29.8 million.
Peters described “the gravity of the Cook Islands’ breach of trust” and highlighted an ongoing dispute regarding the interpretation of “free association with New Zealand.”
The letter also pointed to a significant breakdown in communication between the two nations.
Source
1News
Summary: New Zealand’s extended freeze on aid to the Cook Islands underscores a serious diplomatic rift stemming from unconsulted deals with China and misunderstanding over their political relationship.