Relations between China and the Cook Islands have never targeted any third party and should not be disrupted or restricted by any third party, the Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

All countries, in developing relations with Pacific Island nations, should respect their independence and autonomy, prioritize development and uphold openness and inclusiveness, the ministry's spokeswoman Mao Ning said in response to a newly signed defense and security declaration between New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

China stands ready to deepen practical defense cooperation with the Cook Islands, she said.