The Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Cook Islands, in conformity with the interests and desires of the two peoples, have decided to establish diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level, effective from 25 July 1997.

The two Governments have agreed to develop friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries on the basis of the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence.

The Government of the People's Republic of China reaffirms that there is only one China in the world and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China. The Cook Islands Government recognizes this position of the Chinese Government. The Cook Islands Government recognizes the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China. The Government of the Cook Islands reaffirms its long-standing policy not to enter into official relations with Taiwan in any form.

The Government of the People's Republic of China supports the people of the Cook Islands in their efforts to achieve, in full, their objectives in the area of social, economic and cultural development.

The Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Cook Islands have agreed to exchange ambassadors as soon as practicable, and to provide each with all the necessary assistance for the performance by the other's diplomatic representatives of the diplomatic functions in accordance with international practice and, on a reciprocal basis, on the principle of equality and mutual benefit and in the spirit of friendly consultation.

(signed) Huang Guifang
for the Government of People's Republic of China

(signed)Iaveta Short
for the Government of the Cook Islands


Wellington, 25 July 1997