We’d like to explain what a deep-sea minerals exploration licence actually means for the Cook Islands — and equally important, what it does not mean. Some people worry that, by granting exploration licences, we have already agreed to mining.
We have not. Exploration does not give anyone permission to begin minerals harvesting.
This overview sets out the facts, the process, and the safeguards in place so our country can understand what is really happening in our waters today.
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