Jennifer Arends-Reyes Kingdom Cooperation was the central message delivered ahead of the upcoming Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) and Tripartite meetings.
Parliamentarian Jennifer Arends-Reyes, who also serves as President of the Commission on Kingdom Affairs and Foreign Relations, stressed the importance of Aruba’s participation in the Interparlementair Koninkrijksoverleg (IPKO), which will take place in Aruba starting Thursday, February 19.
According to Arends-Reyes, IPKO serves as an essential platform where the parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands come together to discuss crucial issues affecting the future of the countries within the Kingdom.
“IPKO is not merely a formal or protocol meeting. It is a space where we defend Aruba’s interests, present our concerns, and build bridges of cooperation based on respect and equality,” Arends-Reyes stated.
She explained that IPKO plays a strategic role for Aruba. Topics addressed during the meetings include public finances, crisis management, strengthening the rule of law, and sustainable development. Active participation, she emphasized, is essential to ensure that Aruba’s voice is heard when agreements or regulations are discussed that may directly impact its people.
Arends-Reyes also highlighted that IPKO strengthens the role of parliaments as guardians of democracy. Through direct exchanges with fellow parliamentarians across the Kingdom, Aruba can share experiences, learn from others, and seek joint solutions to common challenges such as climate change, security, and financial stability.
She concluded that serious engagement in IPKO represents an investment in Aruba’s future.
“Every time we sit at the IPKO table, we must remember that we represent the people of Aruba. Our goal is to protect national interests, strengthen our position within the Kingdom, and work toward cooperation that benefits our community today and future generations.”
With this message, Arends-Reyes reaffirmed her commitment to building a Kingdom founded on mutual respect and shared responsibility.
