After all necessary procedures were finalized, Red Cross volunteers and a logistical team launched the first assistance mission. The Government of Aruba has officially activated its first humanitarian aid mission to Venezuela. Following the completion of all logistical preparations, administrative procedures, and international coordination, the first team departed on Sunday morning bound for Venezuela to provide assistance to the injured and communities affected by the severe earthquake.
During the recent days, the Government of Aruba worked intensively alongside the Crisis Management Office (CMO), the Aruba Red Cross, and various national and international partners to ensure the mission could depart swiftly and safely. Prime Minister Mike Eman was present at the Jet-TNCA FBO (Reina Beatrix International Airport) to bid farewell and wish success to all the brave volunteers heading to Venezuela aboard the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard aircraft.
According to Prime Minister Mike Eman, preparations focused on establishing all necessary conditions so that Aruba’s assistance can immediately reach the areas where the need is greatest. “We met with CMO to coordinate all the logistical preparations that need to be made to send a team from Aruba to assist Venezuela. Now that all the necessary paperwork is cleared, our first team has departed for Venezuela.”
The initial group consists of 11 individuals, including 9 Red Cross volunteers and a two-person logistical team from CMO. They will set up a temporary field hospital and prepare all the necessary facilities to receive the subsequent medical team, which will arrive in the coming days to provide specialized medical care and perform surgeries. While the temporary hospital is being set up, Red Cross volunteers will provide first-aid medical assistance to the injured.
The Government of Aruba coordinated the mission with the Venezuelan Red Cross, the United Nations, the Kingdom Embassy in Venezuela, and other international partners to guarantee that the Aruban team can begin its work immediately upon arrival. The safety of the volunteers and professionals participating in the mission was a top priority throughout all preparations. Before the team’s departure, all necessary coordination and guarantees were completed. For the transportation of the mission, Aruba coordinated with various international partners. The U.S. Consul General offered logistical support for the transport of medical equipment, while the possibility of utilizing a Dutch Royal Navy aircraft for the next departing team was also evaluated.
Prime Minister Mike Eman expressed that Aruba feels the tragedy that struck Venezuela very closely. “The reports show extensive devastation, many fatalities, and many injuries. It is a very difficult situation. Aruba has a special relationship with Venezuela and with the Venezuelan community. In difficult times like these, we want to contribute and provide help wherever we can.”
