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Henry Puna returns as president of Cook Islands Party

Pacific Islands Forum secretary general, Henry Puna. Photo: Forumsec Former Cook Islands Prime Minister and Pacific Islands Forum secretary-general Henry Puna has been appointed president of the ruling Cook Islands Party (CIP). The CIP is the party of Prime Minister Mark Brown, who continues to serve as party leader. Puna has also previously served as CIP leader. A statement from Cook Islands Party said Puna brings "unparalleled experience" in his former roles as, party president, party leader, Prime Minister, and head of the Pacific Islands Forum. "His return to the Party Executive signals a renewed sense of stability, unity, and strategic focus," the statement said. "With Henry Puna as President, and Mark Brown leading as Prime Minister and Party Leader, the Cook Islands Party is confident in its future direction and leadership." Former Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna has been appointed president of the Cook Islands Party. Photo: Cook Islands Party The change in president comes as the governments of New Zealand and the Cook Islands are in an increased time of tension stemming from what Wellington views as a lack of consultation over deals Brown signed with China in February. New Zealand paused $18.2m in development assistance last month. The statement from the party said delegates were briefed on the current diplomatic challenges between the Cook Islands and New Zealand. "One of the immediate priorities for the new Party President is to work closely with the Party Leader and Prime Minister to navigate these issues and uphold the interests of the Cook Islands," the statement said. The annual general meeting was held on Thursday local time on Rarotonga and was attended by representatives from all 24 electorates.