The decision drew from New Zealand, which is increasingly cautious about China's growing presence in the Pacific region.

No details have been released, but analysts and environmentalists fear it will pave the way for closer security ties and the start of deep-sea mining.

China seeks to enhance political trust and cooperation with the Cook Islands, as discussed by Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Mark Brown. The discussions focus on marine infrastructure, cultural exchanges,

China and the Cook Islands on Friday signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, but the lack of transparency around the details has alarmed New Zealand, the South Pacific state’s closest democratic ally.