ORANJESTAD - A tripartite consultation took place between Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten on Monday November 8, 2021. Prime Ministers Gilmar Pisas, Eveyln Wever-Croes and Silveria Jacobs spoke on various topics during the meeting. Pisas as well as Wever-Croes and Jacobs emphasized the good relationship between the islands.
According to Wever-croes, there is a revival in the tourism sector in Aruba. The Prime Minister thanks Pisas and Jacobs and calls the talks very valuable. “This strengthens the connection between the islands,” emphasizes Wever-Croes. Pisas adds that the corona pandemic has hindered contact between the islands, but that this has been restored with the consultations.
During the consultation it emerged that all three islands are struggling with a shortage of catering staff. Pisas says he is jealous of the recovery of the Aruban economy. According to the Financial Supervision Board (Cft), Curaçao's deficit amounts to 1.3 billion guilders. The prime ministers discussed the subsidies provided to the various islands. Healthcare costs were also discussed. On November 17, a forecast will be made of the financial situation in Curaçao.
In addition, according to Silveria Jacobs, the emphasis is also on technical support and infrastructure. In addition to the pandemic, Sint Maarten is also dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane. The Prime Minister of Sint Maarten once again emphasizes the importance of good cooperation. “Together we are stronger, and we can go much further”, says Jacobs.
The three islands have made concrete agreements to schedule monthly meetings. It is not yet clear whether these meetings will take place virtually or whether the prime ministers will actually meet in person.