Latest news with #strategic partnership
RNZ News
15 hours ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Cook Islands PM: ‘If we can't get help from NZ, we will go somewhere else'
By Teitimoana Tairi , Cook Islands News Cook Islands PM Mark Brown Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Lydia Lewis Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown defended the nation's new strategic partnership with China, citing the need for diverse international partners to fund a $650 million infrastructure plan that New Zealand alone cannot support, despite NZ's concerns and paused funding. Brown made this comment on Monday (Tuesday NZT) while officially opening the 2025 Pa Enua Governance Forum, held at the USP Cook Islands Campus until Thursday. The Forum is attended by outer island leaders, who are in Rarotonga for the 2025 Te Maeva Nui festival and the Cook Islands' 60th self-governance anniversary in free association with New Zealand, running from 25 July to 5 August. Addressing the ongoing diplomatic row between the Cook Islands and New Zealand, Brown said: "Kua akaari mai a Nuti Reni e, to ratou manamanata, the main one is, kare oki tatou e uipaanga Kapiti ana kia atou, I mua ake tatou I rave teia koreromotu a tatou I sign ki te baseleia o Tnito (New Zealand shared their concerns with us, the main one is that we didn't discuss this partnership with New Zealand before signing the comprehensive strategic partnership with China) ." This has resulted in New Zealand pausing over $18m in core sector support funding, which targets key areas in the Cook Islands' annual budget. Brown said he was surprised to learn that New Zealand had signed an agreement with China similar to the Cook Islands' deal, which resulted in "$60 billion worth of trade" for New Zealand in exchange for relaxed visa entry requirements for Chinese visitors. According to the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, exports to China total $20.85 billion, comprising $17.75b in goods and $3.1b in services (figures for the year ended December 2024). New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will not attend the milestone event in Rarotonga, which will celebrate the Cook Islands' six decades of self-governance in free association with NZ. Photo: RNZ Pacific "There's not one dollar out of this koreromotu (signed partnership) a te Nuti Reni e te Tinito ka tae mai kia tatou," the Brown said. He said that last week, the Australian Prime Minister signed a partnership agreement with China, adding this agreement involves over $200b in annual exports to China and promotes Australia as a tourism destination for Chinese travellers. "Kare okotai meitaki I roto I teia koremotu e ka aere mai kia tatou (Nothing out of this partnership will benefit us), nothing, we have to do our own," Brown told Pa Enua mayors and council members. "… what we did (with China) was sign a friend work engagement in the areas that we would collaborate, and one of them was infrastructure development." Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown defended the nation's new strategic partnership with China. Photo: LIU BIN According to Brown, the country's national infrastructure investment plan costs $650m for infrastructural work across the country, including buildings, transportation, and so on. "New Zealand can't afford to give us that amount of money…we have to develop our partnerships with other larger countries to get the support we need to meet our infrastructure needs," Brown said. "Let me set the record straight about the reality of life, we need to build our infrastructure, we need to improve our standards in the Pa Enua, me kare rauka mai ta te Nuti Reni (if we can't get help from New Zealand), we will go somewhere else and look for that help, and that's what we've been doing." Highlighting the significance of the 60th anniversary, Brown stated that in 1965 the Cook Islands had only one development partner, New Zealand. "Sixty years later, we have 70 development partners, with formal relations with over 70 countries, including all of the biggest countries, the biggest economies in the world today." The 2025 Pa Enua Governance Forum opened on Monday local time (Tuesday NZT), bringing together leaders from across the Pa Enua, government officials, outer island mayors, executive officers and other distinguished guests to discuss ways to strengthen the collaboration between Pa Enua and central governance. In her opening speech, Karopaerangi Ngatoko, the chief of staff at the Office of the Prime Minister, welcomed attendees with words of gratitude and purpose. "…your presence reflects the strength of your commitment to your islands and to our shared development journey," Ngatoko said, acknowledging the distance many had travelled to attend. "This is a working week, it is about progress about delivery and about impact. It is about building the bridge between planning and action - and ensuring that action delivers real outcomes for our Pa Enua." Under the theme, "Akatinamou'anga I te itiki'anga Ora" symbolising unity, collaboration and a shared goal, the Forum marks a significant moment in the Cook Islands journey, coinciding with the nations 60th anniversary of self-governance. Public Service Commissioner Carl Hunter urged integrity and action in the public sector. "We are public servants, servants of the public, not public owners," shared Hunter, highlighting the values that define the nation's public service. He emphasised impartiality, transparency, accountability and added hard work as a core principle, calling for service that puts people before self-interest. Hunter also acknowledged workforce challenges, especially in the Pa Enua, worsened by Covid-19 and ongoing out-of-migration. "In the Pa Enua, these effects have been compounded by long-standing challenges, including high living costs, limited employment opportunities and continued outmigration. These trends have resulted in the loss of skilled workers and have placed real strains on local services and community capacity." Hunter shared early steps in a National Workforce Development Plan and reaffirmed the government's commitment to deeper engagement with island communities through ongoing visits and partnership. Mayor of Atiu, Timaau Mokoroa, representing the Pa Enua, warmly welcomed all attendees and acknowledged the event. Mokoroa extended his gratitude to the Office of the Prime Minister for hosting such an important gathering, which provided a platform to address concerns, share ideas and discuss further improvements for a sustainable country. "I thank our Prime Minister at the moment of the day, for convening this important platform, not only as part of the celebration marking 60 years of self-governance, but more critically, as a space where the voices of our people, especially in the Pa Enua, can be heard. Our concerns acknowledged, and our collective aspirations discussed," he said. "May we move forward in unity, grounded in Christ. Together we carry the weight of our islands, our people, but together we can also carry the weight that leads us forward." -This article was first published by Cook Islands News .
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Acumentrics Partners with Vic Myers Associates to Expand Market Presence in the Western United States
WALPOLE, Mass., July 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Acumentrics, a leader in reliable, rugged power solutions for mission-critical applications, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Vic Myers Associates (VMA), a manufacturers' representative firm with deep technical roots and decades of experience in complex electronic systems. VMA will serve as Acumentrics' regional representative across New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, further strengthening Acumentrics' support network and market presence across the Western U.S. Founded in 1978, Vic Myers Associates has earned a reputation as a trusted technical sales partner, specializing in advanced solutions for the military, aerospace, space, test & measurement, and industrial markets. Their team of experienced field engineers offer deep technical insight and customer-focused guidance throughout the design process, providing in-depth product knowledge and application expertise to ensure optimal integration of technology into complex systems. "With their long-standing relationships and technical depth in key verticals like aerospace and defense, Vic Myers Associates is an ideal extension of Acumentrics' sales team in this important region," said Brian Price, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing at Acumentrics. "Their ability to support our customers from early design concepts through deployment is a natural fit with Acumentrics' lifecycle approach to power systems." Ryan Christian, President of Vic Myers Associates, shared his perspective: "We're excited to join forces with Acumentrics and help bring their robust power technologies to our customer base. Their expertise in SWaP-optimized, MIL-STD-compliant power solutions aligns well with the demands of the platforms we support, and we look forward to growing together in the years ahead." This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Acumentrics' mission to provide customers with high-performance, reliable power solutions designed to meet the rigorous demands of today's defense, aerospace, and industrial environments. Together, Acumentrics and Vic Myers Associates will deliver greater accessibility, responsiveness, and value to customers across the Western United States. Click here for high resolution image of Vic Myers Associates logo. View source version on Contacts Brian Price Global Vice President of Sales and MarketingAcumentrics, Inc.781-815-6047bprice@ Jason Quinten Western Regional Sales ManagerAcumentrics, Inc.781-824-3973jquinten@ Ryan Christian President, Field Engineer (AZ/NV)Vic Myers Associates480-577-7172ryanc@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
Portugal Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Strategic Partnership with Morocco
The Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, praised, on Tuesday in Lisbon, the excellent bilateral ties with the Kingdom of Morocco, reaffirming the mutual will to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, which represents a stellar cooperation model. This position was set out in the Joint Statement signed at the end of his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita. On this occasion, MFA Bourita and his Portuguese peer welcomed the excellent bilateral ties which continue to gain new momentum, strengthened in 2024 by the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the historic Peace and Friendship Agreement signed between the two countries in 1774, and the 30th anniversary of the Friendship, Neighbourhood and Cooperation Treaty, signed in Rabat on May 30, 1994. The two ministers stressed the need to work towards implementing the commitments contained in the strategic partnership linking the two countries, endorsed at the 14th session of the High-Level Meeting held in Lisbon in May 2023. In this respect, MFA Bourita and Rangel seized the opportunity to underline the economic potential and the means to be deployed to further strengthen cooperation in priority areas, notably green hydrogen, calling for continued joint efforts to install the electricity interconnection project and ensure connectivity, including maritime connectivity, between the two countries. The two ministers also welcomed the joint organization by Morocco and Portugal, alongside Spain, of the 2030 Football World Cup, underscoring the momentum that could be unleashed by such a large-scale event in terms of shared prosperity and growth, as well as cultural rapprochement between the two countries. Regrading shared objectives and responsibilities, the two leaders undertook to pursue consultations and coordination within international bodies. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.
The National
3 days ago
- Business
- The National
El Sisi meets Centcom chief in Cairo and reaffirms strong US-Egypt ties
US Central Command (Centcom) chief Gen Michael Kurilla met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in Cairo on Sunday, with both reaffirming the strategic partnership between their countries despite recent strained relations. A statement from the Egyptian presidency underscored the 'strategic depth' of US-Egyptian relations and highlighted that President Donald Trump's attitude towards Cairo was well-intentioned. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral military and security co-operation, and addressing regional challenges, including efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and to allow sustained humanitarian aid to the enclave, the presidency said. The meeting, attended by Egypt's Defence Minister Abdel Meguid Saqr and US ambassador Herro Mustafa, also touched on broader regional issues, with Mr El Sisi discussing Egypt's water security and developments in the Horn of Africa. The high-level visit comes after months of uncertainty over US-Egypt relations, exacerbated by disagreements over Israel's war on Gaza. Mr Trump's controversial demand for Egypt to resettle Palestinians from Gaza in its Sinai Peninsula was met with a firm rejection from Cairo, which called the proposal a threat to national security and the Palestinian cause. The US President then ruffled feathers again in April with a demand that American vessels should transit the Suez Canal free of charge. Pro-government Egyptian media dismissed the idea as 'preposterous' and it fuelled speculation over Cairo's growing frustration with Washington's policies. At the same time, Egypt has deepened its ties with other global powers, particularly China, with which it conducted a joint military exhibition at the Giza pyramids in April and May. Cairo also purchased a number of Chinese military hardware. Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang visited Cairo this month to expand economic and military co-operation, including infrastructure investment and joint military drills. He met government officials, including Mr El Sisi, and business leaders. Egypt's involvement in the Brics bloc and growing reliance on Chinese and Russian arms have signalled a broader shift in its foreign policy. Despite the apparent political discord, US-Egypt economic ties remain significant. In May, the US-Egypt Policy Leaders' Forum highlighted Cairo's efforts to attract American investment, including a proposed US industrial zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. US companies have invested more than $47 billion in Egypt in the past 20 years and the two sides continue to prioritise trade and investment, even as political tension persists. Gen Kurilla's visit may also indicate Washington's intent to preserve its $1.3 billion annual military aid package to Egypt, a cornerstone of their relationship since the 1970s. Following the perceived row, questions were raised over the continuation of the military aid package, especially in light of larger funding cuts introduced by Mr Trump's administration since he came to power again in January. His predecessor Joe Biden had halted 10 per cent of the annual aid package to Cairo over Egypt's failure to comply with human rights standards set by the aid agreement. The aid was restored the following year.
Arab News
5 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Deciphering the dynamics of warming Turkiye-UAE ties
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, accompanied by a high-level entourage, on Wednesday paid an official visit to Turkiye on the invitation of his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The visit included the first meeting of the Turkiye-UAE High-Level Strategic Council, which was established in 2023. The aim was to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, as officials from both sides stated. The evolution of Turkish-Emirati relations in recent years is noteworthy and it is essential to understand the underlying factors that have brought the two countries closer together. I describe the evolving relationship using three Cs: convergence, consensus and cooperation. Turkiye and the UAE have begun to converge on regional issues, build consensus and move toward solid cooperation. In this process, two defining features are compartmentalization and institutionalization. The two countries are working to go beyond a personalized relationship, transitioning toward a more institutionalized one. The signing of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement and the establishment of the High-Level Strategic Council are good examples of this. In March 2023, the UAE ratified the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Turkiye, aiming to more than double bilateral trade volumes to between $40 billion and $45 billion within the next five years. This was followed by the creation of the High-Level Strategic Council as a platform for deepening institutional collaboration. Defense cooperation is a critical pillar of their relationship. The UAE has been pursuing greater strategic autonomy by diversifying its alliances beyond traditional partners like the US. Abu Dhabi's growing defense ties with Turkiye clearly reflect this broader strategic recalibration. The UAE has supported Turkiye's expanding defense industry by signing 20 agreements and placing significant orders for Turkish-made drones. A broader context for this shift can be found in the transition of US policies in the Middle East, which has been impacting Turkish-Emirati relations. Turkiye and the UAE have begun to converge on regional issues, build consensus and move toward solid cooperation Dr. Sinem Cengiz Their growing partnership, rooted in pragmatism, also sets the stage for broader regional economic cooperation. For example, the UAE, alongside Qatar, is backing the Turkish-Iraqi Development Road project, which seeks to connect the Arabian Gulf to the Mediterranean through a network of roads, railways and energy links. Both Ankara and Abu Dhabi see this project as a strategic opportunity to strengthen their regional influence and enhance economic connectivity. The two countries are also exploring a more holistic partnership that goes beyond traditional trade and defense cooperation, encompassing areas like artificial intelligence, climate change and cultural exchange — areas the UAE is particularly focused on developing. Ankara and Abu Dhabi have demonstrated an ability to compartmentalize their differences and focus on areas of alignment. This pragmatic approach has allowed their relationship to evolve from a zero-sum dynamic to one of cooperation. A good example is their engagement in the Horn of Africa, where both have sought to manage their interests through dialogue. They have committed to holding regular consultations on Africa, with the second round of talks held earlier this year. This decision, made during Erdogan's visit to the UAE in 2022, signals a shared commitment to managing potential flashpoints in regions where they have previously competed for influence. Regarding the timing of Sheikh Mohammed's visit, there are three significant aspects. It was the first visit by a UAE president to Turkiye since the collapse of the Assad regime. Moreover, it came at a highly critical moment, as Israel launched airstrikes on Syria — a country where Turkiye and the UAE both have high stakes. In Syria, they are aligning their efforts to support the new government. Turkiye and the UAE share a vision for a stable Syria, but they approach the situation from different angles, with each country focusing on different areas of influence and strategic objectives. The UAE approaches Syria more from an economic angle. On Sunday, Syria finalized a 30-year concession for Abu Dhabi's DP World to develop and operate its Mediterranean port of Tartus in a bid to speed up its postwar reconstruction. The $800 million agreement, which was signed in the presence of Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, reflects the UAE's broader strategy of reengaging with Syria — marking a shift from cautious diplomacy to long-term economic engagement. Al-Sharaa last week made his second official visit to the UAE, which pledged support for Syria's postwar reconstruction. Ankara and Abu Dhabi have demonstrated an ability to compartmentalize their differences and focus on areas of alignment Dr. Sinem Cengiz Meanwhile, Turkiye approaches the file more from a security/political angle: it seeks to finalize a security agreement with the new government and provide assistance to the Syrian military to counter security threats. Second, Sheikh Mohammed's visit underscored the two countries' growing cooperation in the South Caucasus. The UAE this month hosted talks between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan — a move that Turkiye has openly supported. Ankara is pushing Baku to sign a peace agreement with Yerevan, as the path to Turkiye's normalization with Armenia goes through a peace agreement between them. The UAE's efforts reflect its desire to reposition itself as a regional bridge-builder, aligning in some areas with Turkiye's interests. Erdogan emphasized that Ankara was closely monitoring the peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia that were launched in Abu Dhabi and will continue to support endeavors to establish lasting calm in the South Caucasus. Lastly, the visit reflected both countries' intention to deepen their strategic dialogue, which has been cemented by frequent reciprocal visits by their leaders in recent years. Both leaderships demonstrate a pragmatic approach, prioritizing mutual interests over differences that have provided little benefit for either side in the past. The developing Turkish-Emirati relations demonstrate the growing sense of camaraderie in addressing regional challenges and maximizing their interests.
