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

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.