The faction leader of the PPA, Mr. Eduard Pieters, held a fundamental conversation with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Rob Jetten, during his visit to Aruba last Wednesday. Mr. Pieters placed emphasis on the urgent need to diversify Aruba’s economy and the opportunities that the oil industry offers Aruba within the current geopolitical context.
During the meeting, alongside topics related to the Kingdom Law HOFA (Rijkswet HOFA), Mr. Pieters presented the PPA’s plan for a more resilient Aruba. A central point of the dialogue was the activation of the oil industry in Aruba in the short and medium term, especially considering the changes in the situation in Venezuela that have taken place since January 2026.
The Oil Industry as a New Pillar
For the PPA, the oil industry can become the second economic pillar that Aruba needs to stop depending exclusively on tourism, which has proven to be very vulnerable in the past. Mr. Pieters clarified that this plan must be based on modern standards and norms to comply with environmental protection. Therefore, this means the industry must operate under the highest international standards to safeguard our environment.
This new pillar, which does not necessarily mean it is limited only to the refinery, provides economic stability if we consider that it will become the second pillar making Aruba more resistant and resilient against any future economic impacts.
With this economic diversification making Aruba’s economy stronger, combined with solid financial management, it will generate the necessary revenue to fulfill the country’s obligations.
Mr. Pieters concluded that an Aruba with a diversified economy and responsible financial management positions the island at a much stronger level within the Kingdom. This not only strengthens our autonomy but also provides the security that Aruba can face any crisis that may arise in the future with its own strength.