What is the nature of the agreement between the Cook Islands and China, and why is it controversial?

The agreement between Cook Islands and China encompasses deep sea mining, education, and economic cooperation while explicitly excluding security ties. The deal has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing it opens the door for increased Chinese influence and entrenchment in the Pacific region. Facing intense public pressure and protests in Avrum over a perceived lack of transparency, the Cook Islands government has been forced to release the deal's action plan. The controversy highlights growing tensions between China's expanding regional influence and Western concerns about its strategic ambitions in the Pacific.