In a fervent speech with a clear vision for the country’s future, Prime Minister Mike Eman emphasized that the discussions surrounding the HOFA (Hulpverleningsovereenkomst Financieel Aruba / Financial Assistance Agreement Aruba) have not reached their end. Eman delivered a fair and clear message: the Government of Aruba is preparing to return to the negotiating table with the Netherlands, armed with the advice of the Advisory Council (Raad van Advies) and the State Council (Raad van State), with the sole objective of achieving a better agreement that respects the island’s autonomy.
During his address, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of a structured dialogue rooted in mutual respect. According to Eman, this structural decision cannot be rushed, which is why the legal and constitutional advice is crucial for the second round of negotiations.
“The HOFA issue is not a closed chapter,” Prime Minister Eman firmly declared. “As you already know, we have received the advice from the State Council and the Advisory Council. With these recommendations in hand, Mr. President, we are going back to the table with the Netherlands.”
Flexibility and Political Unity
The Prime Minister’s focus is clear: he does not want a forced consensus, but rather a solid outcome that balances financial needs with respect for the country’s laws. He explained that the goal of these new meetings is to identify the most pressing issues facing the people of Aruba, seeking a “good dialogue and a good negotiation” to reach a better final product.
Furthermore, Eman made a direct appeal to the entire Parliament to join forces in this struggle, setting aside traditional political divisions. For the Prime Minister, a victory for Aruba means involving the entire legislative body.
“If we can conclude this matter in a way that the entire Parliament can support, then we will have fulfilled something that resonates on both sides of this floor,” Eman expressed, calling for a structural national unity.
Defending Autonomy in a Modern World
The Prime Minister asked everyone present to focus their energy, knowledge, and structural contacts within the Dutch Kingdom to forge a new path. The main goal is to transform the initial proposals into an acceptable and dignified outcome for the Aruban reality.
Eman concluded his speech with a central focus on the country’s fundamental values:
“To see how we can make the proposal that was on the table acceptable within the context of autonomy, within the context of the freedom our country fought so hard to achieve; one that is acceptable within the realities of today’s world.”
With these statements, Mike Eman opens a new chapter in constitutional relations with the Netherlands, making it clear that Aruba will not easily surrender its autonomy, but will fight proactively and diplomatically for a better financial and autonomous future as they head back to the table.