18 November 2013

Associated State expands diplomatic relations with neighbors







Japanfocus.org

By Makereta Komai

PACNEWS Editor


Three Smaller Island States have established diplomatic relations with Cook Islands.

The formal signing was held at the margins of the Smaller Island States Leaders meeting in Majuro Tuesday.


Cook Islands issued a joint communiqué after its Prime Minister, Henry Puna signed diplomatic ties with the Presidents of Kiribati, Anote Tong, Marshall Islands, Christopher Loeak and Palau’s Tommy Remengesau.

“The agreement strengthens ties of friendship and co-operation between Cook Islands and the three Smaller Island States, says the agreement signed between the Leaders.

All the four island countries are members of the Smaller Island States (SIS) of the Pacific Islands Forum.



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(Majuro, Marshall Islands) – On September 3, at the conclusion of Smaller Islands States Leaders meeting in the Marshall Islands, Palau President and the Cook Islands Prime Minister officially established diplomatic ties, formally connecting the North to the South Pacific.


President Tommy Remengesau Junior and the Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna signed a joint communiqué establishing diplomatic relations between both island nations.

Through the communiqué, both countries agree to “develop and strengthen ties of friendship and cooperation between their countries and people.”

Additionally, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the new Pacific Islands Forum Chairman, also established diplomatic relations with the South Pacific island nation.

Led by President Remengesau, the Palau delegation includes Minister Umiich Sengebau of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Tourism, Minister Billy Kuartei of the Ministry of State, First Lady Debbie Remengesau, Thomas Taro and Keobel Sakuma, the Press Secretary for the President’s Office.