New Zealand restores aid to the Cook Islands as it reiterates their shared Realm link and evolving aid ties. Brief bio: self‑governing in free association with NZ.
New Zealand and the Cook Islands signed a declaration in Rarotonga, clarifying their relationship and resuming aid funding. The move follows a period of tension caused by a secret Chinese deal and aims to strengthen security ties, with New Zealand reaffirming its role as the Cook Islands' main partner.