THE HAGUE – The parliamentary debate on Venezuela underscored the strategic importance of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Several MPs noted that the islands lie close to Venezuela and operate outside NATO treaty protections, making them uniquely vulnerable to regional instability.
Calls were made for stronger coordination with allies such as France, the United Kingdom and Canada, which also maintain a presence in the Caribbean. Some lawmakers argued that the situation reinforces the need for Europe to reduce its dependence on the United States and invest more heavily in its own defense capabilities.
Minister Van Weel acknowledged the islands’ strategic position and said the government remains committed to ensuring their security through close cooperation within the Kingdom and with international partners.