New Zealand halts millions of dollars in aid to Cook Islands over deals with China

New Zealand halts millions of dollars in aid to Cook Islands over deals with China

The self-governing Cook Islands, a country of 17,000 people, has a “free association” relationship with its former colonial ruler New Zealand, which provides budgetary assistance as well as help on foreign affairs and defence

This photo taken on June 15, 2025 shows a sign outside the Apii Nikao primary school, funded by the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Cook Islands on the main island of Rarotonga. AFP