Cook Islands
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About Cook Islands
Cook Islands is a self-governing country in free association with New Zealand, located in the South Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 236 square kilometers. The country consists of 15 islands spread across a vast ocean area, featuring volcanic and coral island terrain with tropical climate. English and Cook Islands Maori serve as official languages, and Avarua on Rarotonga serves as the administrative center.
The Cook Islands economy is driven primarily by tourism, which accounts for the majority of GDP and employment. Key industries include pearl farming, fishing, agriculture, and offshore financial services. The country has a strong cultural heritage rooted in Polynesian traditions, and its stunning lagoons, beaches, and coral reefs attract visitors from around the world. The Cook Islands maintains close ties with New Zealand, which provides defense and economic support.
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Country Name
conventional short form: Cook Islands
former: Hervey Islands
etymology: named after Captain James COOK, the British explorer who visited the islands in 1773 and 1777
Economy
Economic Overview
high-income self-governing New Zealand territorial economy; tourism-based activity but diversifying; severely curtailed by COVID-19 pandemic; copra and tropical fruit exporter; Asian Development Bank aid recipient