WILLEMSTAD – There is no acute threat to the Dutch Caribbean at this time. That assurance came from Walter Hansen, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy in the Caribbean, on Saturday during the annual relationship sail day aboard the naval vessel Zr.Ms. Groningen.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Hansen addressed the current security climate in the region. He acknowledged that recent developments in the Caribbean “may give cause for concern,” but emphasized that the protection of the Kingdom’s Caribbean territories remains the highest priority for the Ministry of Defence in the region.
He noted that the station ship, Zr.Ms. Groningen, is currently carrying out maritime patrols to monitor the security situation around the ABC islands. Hansen also clarified that the Dutch armed forces are not involved in the ongoing U.S. military operations in the region.
“Defence is closely monitoring the situation and keeps the Kingdom fully informed. CZMCARIB protects the Caribbean part of the Kingdom and contributes to stability and security in the region,” Hansen said.
Sail Day Welcomes 160 Guests
Hansen made his remarks during Zr.Ms. Groningen’s annual relationship sail day, where the ship hosted 160 invited guests for a tour around Curaçao. Defence personnel and the Caribbean Coast Guard showcased a range of operational demonstrations at sea, including aerial and maritime maneuvers.
Guests were also given guided tours of the vessel and treated to the traditional blauwe hap, a longstanding naval meal tradition. A similar event was held in Aruba earlier in November.
The day offered participants a rare firsthand look at the role of the Navy and Coast Guard in maintaining security and stability in the Caribbean region.