New Zealand’s top spy has warned of the security risks posed by China’s growing influence in the Pacific and said his agency would ramp up scrutiny of the Cook Islands after the nation deepened ties with Beijing.

China’s growing involvement in the Pacific region has raised security concerns in New Zealand. The increasing influence of China is seen through strategic agreements with several Pacific nations. These agreements cover areas such as education,

New Zealands top intelligence official has raised concerns over Chinas expanding influence in the Pacific, warning of potential national security risks. Andrew Hampton, Director-General of the Security Intelligence