Mutual ties between Aruba and the United States contribute to economic stability and regional influence
Weblogs
From 10 to 13 June, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima visited the US states Georgia and New York in the context of an economic mission. Aruba’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Communication and Sustainable Development Geoffrey Wever was part of the delegation. And for good reason. Aruba has solid economic ties with the United States – ties that underscore and strengthen the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ historic relations with the United States.
Joint efforts
According to Mr Wever, the economic mission – which Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Liesje Schreinemacher also participated in – is an excellent example of the relations that Aruba and the Netherlands have with the US. ‘This joint visit, together with the King and Queen, underscores the strong, joint efforts within the Kingdom of the Netherlands when it comes to promoting international trade. It offers a unique opportunity to further intensify economic ties with the United States, attract investments and explore trade opportunities.’ He continues: ‘Through our joint involvement, Aruba and the other parts of the Kingdom can show that we are attractive and reliable trade partners for the US. This visit emphasises the solidarity and cooperation within the Kingdom.’
Vital role
Aruba, which is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, does a lot of business in and with the United States. The US, for its part, is a major investor in the island. ‘The mutual ties between Aruba and the United States, formally laid down in the US-Aruba friendship and cooperation treaty, have economic and political implications that are vital for Aruba and its role within the Kingdom of the Netherlands,’ explains Mr Wever. ‘The US is our number one source of tourists, investments and trade. That obviously then helps create jobs, develop infrastructure and lay a broader economic foundation.’
But the political aspect is just as important. He adds: ‘The economic ties between Aruba and the US strengthen diplomatic relations as well, and offer Aruba strategic advantages within the Kingdom. What’s more, strong relations with the US contribute to economic stability within the Kingdom and increase Aruba’s regional influence, which is important for the geopolitical position of the Kingdom in the Caribbean.’
Little Caribbean
The delegation visited Little Caribbean, in the neighborhood Flatbush in Brooklyn. Little Caribbean is home to CaribBeing, a collection of local entrepreneurs with Caribbean roots.
Energy transition
Mr Wever knows that such economic stability requires adaptability. He explains: ‘The economies of both Aruba and the US are undergoing changes. Like in areas such as technological development and the energy transition. In the coming years ties between our two countries will continue to deepen and expand through close cooperation in these areas. Such cooperation will focus on innovation, education and training, and the development and use of sustainable energy sources. This will increase Aruba’s economic stability and regional influence, as well as that of the rest of the Kingdom.’
Establishing connections
Given its proximity to the US, Aruba can bridge the gap and foster strategic connections between the Kingdom and the United States and Latin America. The government of Aruba is firmly committed to this, says Mr Wever. ‘We’re doing everything we can to take advantage of Aruba’s unique position and location by strengthening trade routes, promoting logistics and transport facilities, and attracting international companies that are active in the region. And we will continue our work in these areas moving forward.’ He elaborates: ‘We strive to do this, for example, by establishing regional headquarters, technological hubs and educational partnerships. This will encourage knowledge-exchange and promotes innovation. In addition, by encouraging diplomatic exchanges, Aruba can further reinforce its role as a link between these regions and maximise economic advantages.’