THE Cook Islands and Tonga have strengthened bilateral ties after high-level talks last week.
Cooks Prime Minister Mark Brown and Tonga’s Dr Aisake Eke met ahead of the 60th anniversary of Cook Islands’ self-governance.
The meeting was the first in a series of high-level engagements with international partners to reaffirm regional solidarity in light of the upcoming Forum Troika meeting, comprising the Cook Islands, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands.
Brown thanked Tonga for making available the inter-island ship MV Taka-i-Pomana to help with passenger transport from the Pa Enua to Rarotonga.
Eke emphasised the importance of regionalism and working together to address shared challenges.
“Tonga has long been a valued partner for the Cook Islands. Their recent support provided through the MV Taka‑i‑Pomana, to reunite our communities for this historic celebration, is a testament to the kind of partnership that lifts the region as a whole,’’ Brown said.
“By strengthening ties with those closest to us, we create real opportunities for our people and advance the shared goals for a more resilient and connected Blue Pacific.”