THE HAGUE - Undersecretary of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Raymond Knops addressed the Dutch Parliament on Wednesday at his final budget discussion on Kingdom Relations. During the debate, Knops emphasized, among other things, the major poverty problem on the Caribbean islands.

Knops talked about his experiences on the islands in the past period. “I have been able to see up close how elderly people have worked all their lives and now ask themselves every day: am I going to get through the day? Do I have enough food?”

The number of people who made use of the food packages also made a big impression on Knops. “Those are impressions that you don't soon forget. I believe that we as politicians here, but also on the other side of the ocean, have an urgent obligation to do everything in our power to combat this poverty," said the undersecretary.

Knops emphasized the importance of good cooperation. “Work together, “huntu” and respect each other, but go step by step to fight inequality and injustice and give real meaning to the so-won autonomy. Serve the people.”

After the motions were submitted, the undersecretary thanked everyone who are concerned with the life and well-being of the people in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom. “It was a real pleasure, thank you”, concluded Knops.