On January 29, a pivotal regional conference titled “Taking the Reins – Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten: Driving Their Economic Future” was launched in Sint Maarten, bringing together top economic experts and policymakers. The three-day event aimed to foster collaboration among the Dutch Caribbean nations in pursuit of a sustainable and resilient economic future.
The conference opened with a keynote address by Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten, who stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making. She called for a shift from assumption-based planning to strategies rooted in factual evidence, ensuring that public policy stays focused on long-term well-being beyond political cycles.
Organized by the Temporary Work Organization (TWO) in collaboration with Aruba’s Department of Economic Affairs, Trade and Industry (DEZHI), Curaçao’s Ministry of Economic Development, and Sint Maarten’s Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, the event highlighted the strength of inter-island cooperation.
The discussions were structured around the internationally recognized Small Island Developing States (SIDS) framework, which offers a strategic roadmap to build economic resilience against global challenges. Participants explored innovative, data-supported strategies to enhance transparency, promote accountability, and drive sustainable growth.
This landmark conference marked a crucial step toward regional economic alignment, setting the stage for Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten to jointly pursue inclusive and future-proof development.
Photo credits : https://arubaonline.news/aruba-curacao-sint-maarten-sustainable-economic-future/
