Next week, Minister Herbert (Economic Affairs and Climate Policy) is paying an introductory visit to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom and is speaking with the government and the business community about stimulating economic growth.
To achieve growth, the islands are working to make better use of economic opportunities. The Cabinet is supporting this ambition by establishing the Economic Growth Platform Carib (EGP), where entrepreneurs and capital are brought together more effectively.
During the four-day visit (2–5 November), Minister Herbert is visiting Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire and is meeting, among others, prime ministers, island governors, economy ministers, entrepreneurs and representatives of the financial and energy sectors.
On Aruba, the Minister is, among other things, visiting Aruba Refinery in San Nicolas and is meeting representatives of the tourism industry. This sector is important for economic growth and employment on the island. She is also speaking with the people at Impact Hub, which supports start-up entrepreneurs with knowledge and expertise.
During the visit to Curaçao, the Minister is being briefed on the redevelopment of the refinery site (2Bays) for sustainable energy, industry and the circular economy. A boat tour of the capital’s harbour is also on the programme.
On Bonaire, the Minister is speaking with staff at the Prinses Catharina-Amalia Space Innovation Park, where the new Galileo Sensor Station (GSS) has been operational since this spring. The system supports the European satellite navigation system Galileo and contributes to the strategic autonomy of the Caribbean, the Netherlands and Europe.
In addition, the Minister is meeting representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and is attending the celebration of the 500th business loan granted by the Qredits foundation, which helps entrepreneurs grow and develop with amounts of up to USD 100,000.
Minister Herbert: “Economic growth forms the foundation of a healthy and safe society. Not only now, but also for the generations that come after us. Strong economies grow by innovating and can therefore withstand a few knocks. Very important now that we see the world becoming more unpredictable. I look forward to discussing this during the introductory visit”.