Seabed collaboration

The Governments of the United States of America and the Cook Islands are launching a new collaboration to advance scientific research and the responsible development of seabed mineral resources.

Seabed

Seabed minerals are vital for powering the technologies of today and tomorrow. With one of the world’s largest Exclusive Economic Zones, the Cook Islands has taken a leadership role in exploring its mineral resources to create long-term prosperity for its people. The United States is committed to supporting the research and science that will guide this work responsibly, sustainably, and transparently.

This cooperation builds on the strong foundation of our partnership, established with diplomatic relations in 2023. The partnership is committed to:

• Advancing world-class ocean science
• Supporting economic self-reliance and mutual prosperity
• Upholding environmental stewardship
• Setting global best practices in seabed resource management

Gold-standard science

Furthermore, the Government of the United States of America informs that together with the Cook Islands’ vast maritime resources and U.S. expertise in oceanic research and technology, it is uniquely positioned to strengthen global scientific understanding of the deep ocean while ensuring seabed mineral exploration is guided by rigorous, gold-standard science.