Representatives from the BES islands and VNG International met to exchange views on ongoing cooperation within the Caribbean Exchange Network. The meeting focused on collaboration at the local level, with participants sharing experiences related to current initiatives, including crisis management and waste processing.
Participants also underscored the importance of continued knowledge sharing and professional exchange within the programme framework.
During the meeting, a co-financing agreement between the Statia Government and VNG International B.V. was formally presented for the implementation of the Caribbean Exchange Network 2.0. The programme is supported by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands.
The agreement sets out the framework for cooperation, financing, and implementation of the programme as it applies to Statia. Caribbean Exchange Network 2.0 supports institutional development by strengthening professional capacity and facilitating structured professional exchange.
A press moment followed the presentation of the agreement, during which the Statia Government was represented by Island Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam.
Implementation of the programme will take place through expert assignments, learning trajectories, and thematic exchange activities within the agreed framework.
The agreement applies for the full duration of the programme, which is scheduled to run from October 2025 through December 2028, and provides a clear basis for cooperation within the Caribbean Exchange Network.