Minister Grisha Heyliger – Marten opened the event Taking the Reins: Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten – Driving Their Economic Future in Sint Maarten. A three-day event aimed at economic experts
from Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten who will discuss the sustainable economic
future of the three countries.
“Our purpose is clear: to bring together experts and professionals working on a
sustainable future of island states. And to share knowledge, spark ideas, and build
connections across the Caribbean and the Dutch Kingdom. To guide our
conversations, we’ve chosen the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) framework.
It is very relevant for Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, and it gives us an
internationally recognized foundation to build on. It can offer a shared vision and
approach to building resilient economies. Over the next few days, we’re here to
strengthen partnerships, spark innovative ideas, and identify areas for increased
collaboration. Our goal is to conclude with a collective statement and some clear
future next steps”, says Lennard Nijenhuis, Coordinating Country Advisor Curaçao
for the Temporary Work Organization (TWO).
Minister Heyliger – Marten identified an important condition for building a strong
future economy. “We must know our destination and map our route to get there.
Decisions must be based on facts and not assumptions. Using a data driven
approach to decision-making and extending beyond politics to take key actions that
will support the futures of the people of our countries.”
Datum
2 oktober 2023
The event was made possible by the Temporary Organization and was created in
close collaboration with the Department of Economic Affairs, Trade and Industry
(DEZHI) of Aruba, the Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao and the
Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications of host
country Sint Maarten.