The Cook Islands values and appreciates China's respect for its sovereignty, a stance that encourages other countries to establish diplomatic ties with the small Pacific island nation, said Prime Minister Mark Brown.

Brown paid an official visit to China from February 10-16, during which he attended the closing ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games and met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in the host city of Harbin in northeast China.

In an interview with China Media Group (CMG) during his stay in Harbin, the prime minister shared his insights into his country's relations with China.