Prime Minister Helen Clark and the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands today signed a declaration reaffirming the close ties between the two nations.
Helen Clark is attending the Cook Islands' celebration of one hundred years association with New Zealand.
She said the joint declaration, signed with Cook Islands Prime Minister Terepai Maoate, formally updates what has been taking place for some time as the Cook Islands has moved to develop its own identity.
Ms Clark said the two countries share a long history and close personal ties with an estimated 48,000 people of Cook Islands descent living in New Zealand.
The Cook Islands was administered as a dependent territory of New Zealand from 1901 until 1965, when the Cook Islands adopted a constitution which provided for full self-government in 'free association' with New Zealand.
New Zealand retained responsibilities for Cook Islands' foreign affairs and defence. Cook Islanders also retain New Zealand citizenship.
PM affirms NZ's ties with Cook Islands
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