The Cook Islands remains committed to strengthening its high-trust partnership with New Zealand

It comes as Foreign Minister Winston Peters has put millions of dollars developmental aid on hold - saying trust needs to be restored.

The island nation signed a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, without reference to New Zealand, despite our two countries' official special relationship.

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, affirms their right to engage with international partners, that align with their development goals and national priorities.

He says they will continue to prioritise dialogue with New Zealand.