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Kūki 'Āirani
Cook Islands

Associated state of ‌New Zealand
Flag Coat of arms
Anthem
Te Atua Mou E
God is Truth
Location of Cook Islands
Capital Avarua
Status Associated state
Prime Minister
- From 2010 Henry Puna
Legislature Parliament
History
August 4, 1965 Self-government in free association with New Zealand
Area 240 km²
Population
- 2006 19,569
 Density 81.5/km²
GDP 2006 (PPP)
- Total US$ 0.1 billion
- Per capita US$ 9,100
Currency New Zealand dollar
Flag of None British Western Pacific Territories
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The Cook Islands is a self-governing state, in free association with the Realm of New Zealand, located in Polynesia.


Background

Named after Captain COOK, who sighted them in 1770, the islands became a British protectorate in 1888. By 1900, administrative control was transferred to New Zealand; in 1965, residents chose self-government in free association with New Zealand. The emigration of skilled workers to New Zealand and government deficits are continuing problems.[1]

Economy

Like many other South Pacific island nations, the Cook Islands' economic development is hindered by the isolation of the country from foreign markets, the limited size of domestic markets, lack of natural resources, periodic devastation from natural disasters, and inadequate infrastructure. Agriculture, employing more than one-quarter of the working population, provides the economic base with major exports made up of copra and citrus fruit. Black pearls are the Cook Islands' leading export. Manufacturing activities are limited to fruit processing, clothing, and handicrafts. Trade deficits are offset by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid overwhelmingly from New Zealand. In the 1980s and 1990s, the country lived beyond its means, maintaining a bloated public service and accumulating a large foreign debt. Subsequent reforms, including the sale of state assets, the strengthening of economic management, the encouragement of tourism, and a debt restructuring agreement, have rekindled investment and growth.[2]



Prime Minister

  • Henry Puna () (November 30, 2010 - )

Nation

New Zealand Polities

Neighbouring Nations

References

  1. The CIA World Factbook: Introduction - Background
  2. The CIA World Factbook: Economy - Overview
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