WILLEMSTAD — During its meeting on April 2, 2025, the Council of Ministers of Curaçao made a series of significant decisions regarding international cooperation, public health policy, and government projects, even as the Pisas II cabinet remains in a transitional phase.
Cabinet Resignation Under Consideration
The Council acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Governor of Curaçao, dated March 20, 2025, regarding the pending resignation request of the Pisas II cabinet. The letter was submitted by Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas on March 26, formally initiating the process of government transition. No final decision has yet been announced on the matter.
Closer Ties with Suriname and the Benelux
In a move to strengthen regional diplomatic relations, Curaçao has agreed to apply two international agreements between Suriname and the Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg):
Visa Exemption for Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders: Curaçao will implement the visa waiver agreement that eliminates the need for visas for holders of diplomatic or service passports traveling between Suriname and Benelux countries.
Readmission Agreement: The island will also apply the agreement on the return and readmission of individuals found to be residing irregularly within the territories. These decisions were made based on recommendations from the Director of Foreign Relations, dated November 25, 2024.
Project Extension with Phae Affairs Approved
The government has authorized an extension of its cooperation with Phae Affairs for the continuation of the GT Project CUR II, a governance and transparency initiative. The updated contract will run from April 1 through December 31, 2025. The Director of the Department of Legislation and Legal Affairs (WJZ) has been empowered to sign the contract on behalf of the country. A formal decree related to the agreement will also be submitted to the Governor for approval.
Reform in Medication Regulation
In the area of public health, the Council approved a proposed amendment to the National Decree on Packaged Medicines. The updated legislation will soon be presented to the Governor for signing. The changes aim to improve oversight and control in the pharmaceutical sector and were initiated by the Minister of Health, Environment, and Nature, in coordination with the Minister of Finance.
Governance Amid Political Transition
Despite the pending resignation of the current cabinet, the Council of Ministers continues to function and manage critical affairs of state. The decisions made this week demonstrate continuity in governance, with a strong focus on international cooperation, administrative reforms, and healthcare regulation.