The Cook Islands doesn’t want a New Zealand Navy base on its shores, but it does want stronger collaboration.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown have signed a defence and security declaration, which includes restoring 30 million dollars in funding.

The agreement eases tensions that flared when the Cook Islands struck a deal with China last year.

Brown says he's 'pleased' both countries were able to sign off on this agreement.

"It sets a foundation, really, for us to build on our relationship going forward. So for us here in the Cook Islands, we're really happy with this."  

LISTEN ABOVE

The Cook Islands doesn’t want a New Zealand Navy base on its shores, but it does want stronger collaboration.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown have signed a defence and security declaration, which includes restoring 30 million dollars in funding.
The agreement eases tensions that flared when the Cook Islands struck a deal with China last year.
Brown says he's 'pleased' both countries were able to sign off on this agreement.
"It sets a foundation, really, for us to build on our relationship going forward. So for us here in the Cook Islands, we're really happy with this."&nbsp;&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Mark Brown: Cook Islands Prime Minister on the nation signing a defence declaration with New Zealand

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/d6d36961-b316-44ea-a623-b42000437c82/transcript