Vietnam, Cook Islands establish diplomatic ties
VOV.VN - Diplomatic representatives of Vietnam and the Cook Islands have signed a joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two sides.
The document was penned on April 26 by Vietnamese Ambassador to New Zealand Nguyen Van Trung, on behalf of the Government of Vietnam, and Cook Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand Elizabeth Wright-Koteka.
The two sides agreed to officially establish diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level from the date of signing.
Vietnam is the 57th country in the world and the 6th in Southeast Asia that has established diplomatic relations with the Cook Islands.
The Cook Island is the 190th state in the world that Vietnam has established diplomatic ties with.
After the signing ceremony, Ambassador Nguyen Van Trung and High Commissioner Elizabeth Wright-Koteka discussed measures to enhance mutual understanding and develop solidarity and friendship between the two nations.
The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas of their strength such as tourism, agriculture and fishing, and exchange experiences in responding to climate change and preventing the COVID-19 pandemic.
They also agreed to coordinate actions at Asia-Pacific forums, as well as in United Nations organizations.
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands comprises 15 islands of different sizes whose total land area is nearly 240 square kilometers. The islandic state possesses abundant marine and ocean resources, with the fishing and cultured pearl industries developing well. Tourism is the leading industry that accounts for over 65% of its GDP.
The Cook Islands gained self-rule on August 4, 1965 and was recognized as an independent state by the United Nations in 1992. It has an independent and open foreign policy.