WILLEMSTAD - Acting director of the state company Curaçao Refinery, Marcelino de Lannoy is positive about statements by the Venezuelan oil minister Manuel Quevado, but also warns of the bitter reality.

Quevedo delivered a positive message during his visit, namely the salaries that will be paid until the end of the year and PdVSA sees opportunities to continue to operate the refinery after the contract expires in December.

De Lannoy now says that there have been no revenues for months, but the expenses will continue to rise. There are still sanctions against Venezuela and PdVSA is a state-owned company with 19 billion in debts and claims, or let's not lose sight of reality.

De Lannoy thinks it is a bad idea to have the non-disclosure agreement expire, just as employees and trade unions of the refinery want. It would deter potential partners, the trade unions think. The RdK director believes that a non-disclosure agreement would benefit an acquisition.

Finally, De Lannoy confirms that the refinery will also comply with environmental requirements with a new strategic partner.