WILLEMSTAD - The Curaçao International Investment Summit (CIIS) opened with significant momentum during its pre-event session, where the Consuls General of Colombia (Pablo Antonio Rebolledo), China (Zhang Kaibin), the United States (Ramón “Chico” Negrón) and Haiti (Carl Saint Remy) engaged in a dynamic dialogue moderated by MEO senior policy advisor Gwido Jansen. The discussion focused on emerging opportunities for deepening economic cooperation with Curaçao.
The Consuls of Colombia, China and the US together with CIIS
The session was formally opened by CINEX CEO Miles Mercera, followed by an inspiring keynote address from Vanessa Toré, Sector Director of Foreign Economic Cooperation. Toré highlighted Curaçao’s historical resilience, strategic geographic position and current economic momentum, calling on international partners to join the “Blue Wave”—Curaçao’s ambition to grow into an innovation-driven, export-oriented economy.
Panelists emphasized Curaçao’s growing potential as a logistical, digital and diplomatic hub for the region. Discussion topics included trade, the maritime sector, tourism development, the energy transition, academic exchange and new export opportunities.
December 4: Networking Reception & Official Opening of InvestInWillemstad 2025
The CIIS week continues on December 4 with a networking reception in downtown Willemstad, marking the official opening of the sixth edition of InvestInWillemstad. The event takes place at the historic Government Square, forming part of the annual Willemstad UNESCO Day celebration.
December 5: InvestInWillemstad 2025 — Building a Sustainable and Innovative Future for the City Center
On December 5, government officials, urban specialists, entrepreneurs and investors will gather for InvestInWillemstad 2025. This year’s edition marks a major step toward transforming Willemstad into an ESG Living City Lab—an innovative, sustainable, livable urban environment.
During the event, a major new announcement will be revealed, expected to significantly influence the spatial and economic direction of Willemstad’s city center.
The program includes:
Opening remarks by MEO and VVRP, led by quartermaster Hans van Aalst and InvestInWillemstad founding father Rob van der Bergh
Panel session: ESG Cities of the Future
Sector panels on maritime economy, heritage, wellness and sports, digitalization, smart mobility and urban experience
Launch of the InvestInWillemstad Facilitation Office
Presentation of the Innovation Hub, featuring Villa Maria as the target location, in collaboration with CINEX, MEO and CITI
Investment pitches showcasing various city center development projects
Willemstad as a Living City Lab
With InvestInWillemstad 2025, Curaçao takes a decisive step toward a city center that is sustainable, economically diverse, innovative and future-ready. The blending of heritage, digital transformation, maritime strength and creative entrepreneurship positions Willemstad uniquely within the region.
Local registration is available at a special rate of USD 100, inclusive of networking reception and lunch:
https://www.curacaoinvestmentsummit.com/delegate-registration/delegate-booking
“For everyone who loves Curaçao: this is the moment to build the future of our UNESCO city center together.”