China, Cook Islands partner on seabed mineral exploration
The Cook Islands said Saturday it has struck a five-year agreement with China to cooperate in exploring and researching the Pacific nation's seabed mineral riches.
A joint committee would oversee the partnership, which also includes seabed minerals-related training and technology transfer, logistics support, and deep-sea ecosystems research, News.Az reports, citing AFP.
The Cook Islands government said the memorandum of understanding, signed with China on February 14, did not involve any agreement to give an exploration or mining licence.
Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown had already released details of a broader partnership agreement signed during his state visit to China this month.
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