WILLEMSTAD – Koning Willem-Alexander will travel to Aruba on March 18 for an official visit marking two important milestones in the island’s history, the Royal Netherlands Government Information Service (RVD) announced on Monday.
The visit takes place in the context of Aruba’s status aparte, which the island obtained in 1986, granting it a separate status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. During the visit, attention will be given to Aruba’s political, social, and economic development since that constitutional change.
The King’s visit also coincides with the celebration of 50 years of Aruba’s flag and national anthem, both of which were officially introduced in 1976. March 18 is a national holiday on the island, known as Dia di Himno y Bandera (Anthem and Flag Day), and is widely celebrated across Aruba.
According to the RVD, the visit will reflect on Aruba’s identity, autonomy, and progress over the past decades. Further details about the program are expected to be announced at a later stage.
King Willem-Alexander last visited Aruba in January 2023, when he was accompanied by Koningin Máxima and Prinses Amalia.
