WILLEMSTAD — The Council of Ministers of Curaçao has taken several important decisions affecting national affairs during its meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, according to information released on January 16.
One of the key points discussed was the outcome of the Vierlandenoverleg Volksgezondheid (Four-Country Health Consultation). The Council took note of the conclusions reached during the sixth administrative meeting on public health, in which Curaçao, Aruba, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands agreed to strengthen cooperation within the Kingdom in the field of public health. The agreements focus on closer coordination and collaboration to address shared health challenges across the Kingdom.
In addition, the Council approved the initiation of procedures to extend existing mutual legal assistance agreements with the United States to Curaçao. This concerns both the agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters between the European Union and the United States, as well as the treaty between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States. The Minister of Justice has been designated as the competent authority responsible for implementing these agreements once they come into force for Curaçao. The move is intended to enhance international cooperation in criminal investigations and judicial matters.
The Council also addressed the future of the Curaçao Zoo. Ministers agreed to transfer the animals currently housed at the former zoo to external organizations that meet established animal welfare standards. At the same time, the government will begin examining options for the responsible redevelopment of the former zoo site. Possible future uses under consideration include nature conservation, recreation, and tourism-related activities.
According to the government, the decisions reflect a broader focus on strengthening cooperation within the Kingdom, improving international legal frameworks, and ensuring responsible handling of environmental and animal welfare matters on the island.