WILLEMSTAD - In the week of February 25, the Minister of Traffic, Transport and Spatial Planning, Mrs. Zita Jesus-Leito traveled to French Polynesia with two (European-sponsored) delegation members in connection with the OCTA Ministerial Week.
During this week various topics were discussed such as the European Development Fund (EDF), developments such as Brexit and the situation in Venezuela. Minister Jesus-Leito replaced the role of Prime Minister Rhuggenaath, as the Prime Minister had to stay in Curaçao due to recent local developments.
Regarding the regional development fund, the three focus sectors were already definitively chosen for the Caribbean in October 2018, namely: resilience, marine biodiversity and sustainable energy. The Minister has signed an "endorsement declaration" on behalf of Curaçao. The Caribbean receives a total of € 40 million for joint projects in the region. At the same time, Curaçao has had the opportunity to present the state of affairs regarding the 10th and 11th EDFs. The 10th EDF finances projects to renovate the neighborhoods in Kortijn, Nieuw Nederland, Sapaté and Tera Cora. The funds for the 11th EDF will be given to projects to build resilient and sustainable communities.
During the Ministerial Conference, Curaçao discussed its views on various developments such as Brexit and current negotiations that affect the funds that are already being received. In addition, Curaçao has been unanimously elected president of the Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA).
After the Ministerial Conference, the EU-OCT Forum followed, in which the OCTs participated together with members of the European Commission, including Commissioner Mimica, and member states (Denmark, France, United Kingdom and Kingdom of the Netherlands). Curaçao has held a speech on behalf of the Dutch OCTs about the future of the EU-OCT partnership. Curaçao was then presented as OCTA President.
Venezuela was discussed during bilateral and multilateral discussions with European Commissioner Mimica and other members of the European Commission. The Commission was eager to learn about the situation and indicated at the meeting that there might be funds available for Curaçao in connection with the situation in Venezuela. There will be further contact between the government and the Commission about this.