ORANJESTAD - The Four-Country Consultation between the Netherlands, Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten went well. This was stated by the prime ministers and the state secretary after the meeting in Aruba during a press conference. Three scenarios for change were discussed, in which the choice fell on one. What the scenarios entail has not been disclosed.
According to Aruban Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes, the consultations revolved around cooperation and realizing changes. State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Alexandra van Huffelen states that there are differences, but 'that together we are one kingdom'. “Our residents should have the most beautiful and good life possible. It is important that we have met in real life to work together on a single solution,” says Van Huffelen.
During the consultation, the response to the COHO Kingdom Act was discussed. The State Secretary emphasizes the importance of necessary reforms. This will be discussed further in August. Furthermore, Van Huffelen states that she wants to give countries the space to phase out the 12.5 percent salary cut, but that conditions have been set for this. This will be discussed further in the Kingdom Council of Ministers next Friday. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas says he is satisfied with the talks and believes that there is clear direction.
Wever-Croes states that the National Package was not discussed this time. “There are no ambiguities about this and otherwise they will be discussed with the State Secretary,” said Wever-Croes. The Aruban Prime Minister has indicated today that she cannot comply with the recommendations of the Committee for Financial Supervision or the Cft. According to Van Huffelen, those talks are still ongoing and only then will decisions be made in the Kingdom Council of Ministers.