ORANJESTAD (AAN): The Government of Aruba has officially opened the Directie Koninkrijksrelaties en Europese Unie, marking a strategic step toward strengthening ties within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the European Union.
The opening ceremony brought together key local and international leaders, including Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister Gerlien Croes, European Commissioner Jozef Síkela, and State Secretary Eddie van der Burg.
Prime Minister Eman emphasized that the Aruba EU Relations Office represents a clear commitment to making international cooperation a national priority. He highlighted that the new office will help inform the public, develop policies, and create new opportunities for the people of Aruba.
Minister Croes noted that the re-establishment of a dedicated office demonstrates Aruba’s vision to position itself as an active and strategic partner within both the Kingdom and the European Union, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and economic growth.
European Commissioner Síkela reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to overseas territories like Aruba. He explained that the Aruba EU Relations Office will serve as a direct access point for citizens, businesses, and institutions to benefit from European programs such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and Digital Europe.
State Secretary van der Burg stressed that the initiative goes beyond funding, focusing on strengthening connections between countries, institutions, and communities in an increasingly complex global environment.
The Aruba EU Relations Office is seen as a major investment in Aruba’s future, reinforcing its international position and expanding opportunities for sustainable development.
