Cook Islands Recognised
As the Cook Islands prepares to celebrate its Constitution Day on the first Monday of August, RAMSI Special Coordinator
James Batley thanked the Cook Islands Government and people for their commitment to the Regional Assistance Mission to
Solomon Islands.
Mr Batley noted that the Cook Islands had been contributing to the mission from its earliest days, releasing to date
eight members of its police force of just 117 people to work in Solomon Islands with the Participating Police Force
(PPF).
“The Cook Islands PPF members have been noted for the enthusiasm they bring to our mission,” Mr Batley said.
“I was pleased to hear that the Cook Islands deputy Prime Minister, Hon Terepai Maoate, was able to observe the work of
his police force as members of the PPF during his recent visit to Honiara for the Forum Economic Ministers Meeting.”
Two police officers are serving in the current Cook Islands PPF contingent. Commander Sergeant Kurere Tuaputa is based
in Honiara and Sergeant Johnny George is currently posted to Malu’u in North Malaita.
“On behalf of RAMSI, I want to particularly thank the government and people of Cook Islands for their contribution to
the mission as they celebrate their Constitution Day on the first Monday of August,” Mr Batley said.
RAMSI now comprises fourteen contributing countries – Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronies, Fiji,
Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
Ends