China says a visit this week by the Cook Islands' prime minister to Beijing was not meant to conspire against anyone in the South Pacific, despite the trip stirring up a diplomatic spat between the tiny nation and its chief benefactor,

Cook Islands' Prime Minister Mark Brown said on Thursday he had held discussions with institutions on marine science, climate resilience and economic cooperation so far during a trip to China that has raised national security concerns in New Zealand.

Q: I want to ask about the visit of the prime minister of the Cook Islands to China this week. It’s reported that China and the Cook Islands will sign a comprehensive strategic partnership. New Zealand has expressed concern that the Cook Islands has not properly consulted with New Zealand about this coming agreement or partnership.

Cook Islands’ expected partnership deal with China has triggered tensions between the South Pacific nation and New Zealand.