NZ Freezes Aid Over Cook Islands-China Mining Deal

New Zealand has suspended approximately NZ$18.2 million (US$11 million) in development funding to the Cook Islands after the latter signed partnership agreements with China without prior consultation. The agreements reportedly focus on cooperation in deep-sea mining and economic projects, but exclude security-related cooperation, alleviating some initial concerns. New Zealand, the Cook Islands' largest aid donor and constitutional partner, said funding will not resume until trust is restored. The freeze impacts key sectors such as health, education, and tourism. The Cook Islands government has expressed a willingness to repair relations, while China asserts its deals are not meant to undermine New Zealand. The move reflects broader concerns in both New Zealand and Australia about China's growing influence in the Pacific.