US Ambassador Prioritizes Cook Islands Critical Minerals, Warns of China’s Pacific Influence

The United States is placing greater emphasis on securing critical minerals from the Cook Islands, with newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly identifying the resource-rich nation as a key strategic priority while warning Pacific countries about the risks of expanding ties with China.

Speaking on Friday, Novelly, who serves as U.S. ambassador to New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue, and Samoa, said critical minerals have rapidly become one of his top priorities. He noted that the issue gained importance over recent months as Washington intensified efforts to secure alternative supplies for industries such as clean energy, advanced technology, and defense while reducing dependence on China-dominated supply chains.

The Cook Islands hold significant deposits of polymetallic nodules on the seabed, containing minerals used in batteries and other high-tech products. Although commercial mining has not been approved, the government has authorized exploration activities. Earlier this year, the United States and the Cook Islands signed a non-binding agreement covering critical minerals research, supply chain security, and deep-sea mineral cooperation. The island nation has also entered into exploration and research agreements with China.

Novelly, the first U.S. ambassador accredited to the Cook Islands, said he plans to spend considerable time in the country and introduce American companies that could help develop future mineral extraction projects.

The ambassador also cautioned Pacific nations to carefully evaluate partnerships with Beijing, arguing that financial arrangements can sometimes carry long-term obligations. China has significantly expanded its presence across the Pacific through investments in infrastructure, telecommunications, development financing, policing, and digital connectivity, while Beijing maintains that its partnerships are based on mutual respect and economic development.

Beyond minerals, Novelly said Washington is exploring ways to strengthen Pacific economies by reducing remittance costs and expanding economic cooperation beyond traditional aid.

During his first visit to New Zealand, Novelly reaffirmed U.S. support for defense cooperation with Wellington while encouraging allies to increase their own defense spending. He also expressed hope that a U.S. aircraft carrier could one day visit Auckland if New Zealand's longstanding nuclear-free policy were revised, emphasizing that any decision rests entirely with the New Zealand government.