China stood ready for "in-depth" talks with the Cook Islands, Beijing said on Thursday, a day before a meeting between Premier Li Qiang and visiting Prime Minister Mark Brown. According to the Chinese foreign ministry,

China is willing to deepen mutual political trust with the Cook Islands, China's Premier Li Qiang said during a meeting with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, China's national television broadcaster reported on Friday.

China seeks to enhance political trust and cooperation with the Cook Islands, as discussed by Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Mark Brown. The discussions focus on marine infrastructure, cultural exchanges,

Beijing revealed details of its meeting with Prime Minister Mark Brown for the first time on Thursday, as New Zealand Foreign Minister faces criticism for bullying.

China acknowledged a visit by the Cook Islands leader for the first time on Thursday, amid exasperation in New Zealand that it was not consulted about expected agreements involving the South Pacific nation,