WILLEMSTAD – The Netherlands is poised to enhance its cooperation within the Framework for the Western Hemisphere Allied Collaboration (F-WHAC), a partnership designed to promote stability and security across Latin America and the Caribbean. This collaboration, which includes the United States, Canada, and three other countries, is focused on addressing security threats in the region. Recently, the highest body of F-WHAC met at the Parera Naval Base on Curaçao to further strengthen this alliance.
F-WHAC aims to collectively tackle security threats, with a particular focus on boosting regional stability. While the collaboration is non-binding, it allows for coordinated actions and information sharing. The situation in Venezuela is a primary concern, especially given the instability in the country and the resulting refugee influx into neighboring nations. The five participating countries are committed to jointly addressing threats, such as the growing influence of countries like Iran, China, and Russia in the region.
The F-WHAC framework provides opportunities for collaboration across various areas, including humanitarian aid, drug control, and transnational crime. While there are no binding obligations, the framework facilitates coordination and collective action when necessary. Additionally, the countries involved also engage in bilateral cooperation, such as a joint anti-drug exercise with Colombia.
"The establishment of F-WHAC comes at a time when the global power balance is shifting, impacting the Caribbean region as well," said Commander Walter Hansen. He emphasized that the Netherlands must be prepared for potential escalations and should be able to act independently if necessary. "The focus, therefore, is on strengthening military capabilities and increasing the readiness of Caribbean units," Hansen added.