The Cook Islands has reached a significant milestone with the first-ever deployment of three deep-sea environmental monitoring mooring arrays north of Aitutaki (figure 1). Conducted under approved exploration licences, this initiative was a joint effort between Moana Minerals Limited (MML) and Cobalt Seabed Resources Limited (CSR).
Read MoreYou can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) is participating in the State Visit to China from 10-14 February, alongside the Cook Islands Government Delegation. This visit focused on capacity building, research, and scientific collaborations.
Read MoreThe comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between the Cook Islands and China will be signed this Friday (Thursday, Cook Islands time).
This was confirmed by the Office of the Prime Minister after it released initial details of Cook Islands’ talks with China this week.
Read MoreThe comprehensive deal the Cook Islands will sign with China in the coming week will not involve any borrowing, the Prime Minister confirmed this week.
Read MoreCook Islands Government is misleading the public into believing the country is undecided on whether to allow deep seabed mining, claims an advocate for ocean conservation and protection.
Read MoreThe Office of the Public Service Commissioner (OPSC)in partnership with the New Zealand High Commission (NZHC), is pleased to announce that Messrs Te Ara Henderson Senior Policy & Legal Officer, Seabed Minerals Authority) and Mani Mate (Director, Development Coordination Division, MFEM were selected to participate in the Pacific Diplomatic Training Programme—a professional development initiative aimed at equipping emerging public servants with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate regional and international diplomacy.
Read MoreThe National Environment Service (NES) says it plays a crucial role in assessing and reviewing environmental matters associated with seabed mineral activities.
This includes the administration of applications for environmental consents and permits. In collaboration with the Seabed Mining Authority (SBMA), the NES ensures regulatory oversight and compliance with environmental management and reporting requirements set forth by license conditions and environmental consents or permits.
Read MorePrime Minister Mark Brown has acknowledged economic concerns about seabed mining, emphasising that the government will only proceed with projects that are both commercially viable and environmentally sustainable.
Brown was responding to recent cautionary remarks from Australian economist Professor Christopher Flemming regarding the Cook Islands’ plans for seabed mining.
Read MoreCook Islands Government’s recent consultation tour in New Zealand was a significant success, effectively addressing numerous concerns held by the diaspora regarding seabed mining, says Prime Minister Mark Brown.
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