ORANJESTAD (AAN): The Governor of Bonaire, John Soliano, emphasized the importance of collaboration between islands to improve access to funding and address shared challenges during the 21st Overseas Countries and Territories – European Union Forum held in Aruba.
Speaking at the Ministerial Conference, Soliano highlighted that the forum provides a valuable platform for unifying positions and working together on common priorities. The EU Cooperation Aruba Forum plays a key role in strengthening partnerships among island territories.
He stressed the need to modernize and simplify European Union funding processes to make them more accessible. According to Soliano, reducing bureaucracy would allow islands to access financial support more efficiently and effectively.
Soliano explained that cooperation between territories creates stronger negotiating power and leads to more concrete results. Through collaboration, islands can strengthen their position and achieve greater impact for their communities within the EU Cooperation Aruba Forum.
He also pointed out that island territories face a wide range of challenges, including climate change, energy transition, mobility, security, and economic development. These issues require long-term structural solutions rather than short-term projects.
Soliano emphasized the importance of sustainable investment programs that ensure lasting results. He concluded by stating that regional cooperation and collaboration within the Kingdom of the Netherlands are increasingly important in a changing global environment.
The participation of Bonaire in the forum reinforces the importance of the EU Cooperation Aruba Forum in promoting resilience, institutional strength, and sustainable development across island territories.
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