On the margins of the Cook Islands 60th Constitutional Celebrations, Prime Minister Brown took time to meet with National Security Council Senior Director David Copley from the United States of America. Mr Copley was here to represent President Trump for the anniversary and conveyed a congratulatory letter from the President to commemorate the occasion.
During the meeting, the Cook Islands and United States reaffirmed their growing partnership underpinned by the formal signing of diplomatic relations in 2023. Areas covered in the discussions included economic security, responsible mineral development, tourism promotion, affordable energy, and broader economic engagement.
Both countries agreed to cooperate further in the responsible management of seabed minerals, with a commitment to scientific advancement, mutual prosperity, economic self-reliance, and environmental stewardship. It is expected that closer cooperation will provide the platform to advancing responsible development of seabed minerals and global scientific understanding of the deep ocean, and to setting a high standard for transparent seabed resources management.
Other areas for future engagement included economic security and Prime Minster Brown highlighted the challenges of infrastructure development and the need to diversify the economy. Prime Minister Brown noted that tourism remains a key driver of the economy and highlighted the value of the Hawaiian Airlines route connecting to North America through Hawaii. Building on connectivity and digital technology are Cook Islands priorities for continued growth.
The meeting reaffirmed the values shared by both countries and a commitment to regional stability in the Pacific. The United States has provided valuable assistance in combatting Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Cook Islands EEZ though a long-standing partnership with the US Coast Guard.
Looking ahead, both parties expressed interest in building momentum in the relationship and exploring further opportunities for closer collaboration.
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