The New Zealand government has suspended aid to the Cook Islands, criticizing its partnership with China, which is expanding its influence in the Pacific.

Following the Cook Islands' announcement to enter into a partnership with China, New Zealand has decided to suspend financial aid, including a planned payment of nearly €10 million for development. The New Zealand government, which has allocated some €100 million over the past three years, has called for concrete measures from the Cook Islands to restore confidence. The move reflects concerns about China's growing influence in the resource-rich Pacific.