THE HAGUE – The Dutch government has reaffirmed that decisions regarding the admission of ships to Curaçao’s ports fall under the authority of the autonomous country itself, not the Kingdom as a whole.
In response to parliamentary concerns, officials explained that maritime enforcement, port access, and inspection of cargo are considered national responsibilities of Curaçao.
While the Kingdom is responsible for foreign relations and international treaties, day-to-day enforcement of maritime regulations and sanctions compliance is handled locally.
This clarification comes amid calls from some Dutch lawmakers to elevate the issue to the Kingdom level, a move the government has rejected.