THE HAGUE - The Dutch Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Pieter Schoof, has dismissed allegations of neocolonialism directed at the Netherlands, calling them "inappropriate and incorrect." This response was articulated by Climate and Green Growth Minister Sophie Hermans in a letter addressed to the House of Representatives, co-signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Veldkamp.
The accusations were made by Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev during a session at the COP29 climate summit, where he sharply criticized both the Netherlands and France. Aliyev accused the European countries of engaging in neocolonial practices, specifically during discussions about the impact of climate change on small island states. In her letter, Minister Hermans emphasized the Netherlands' ongoing commitment to supporting the Caribbean territories of the Kingdom, contrary to the claims made by the Azerbaijani president.
Hermans Responds to COP29 Developments
In the letter to Parliament, Minister Hermans provided an update on the ongoing COP29 summit, which began on Monday in Azerbaijan. Highlighting the significance of the event, Hermans noted the importance of advancing and adhering to the goals of the Paris Agreement. She stressed that the summit serves as a crucial platform for open discussions and negotiations on climate action.
Hermans also addressed the remarks made by President Aliyev, stating that the Dutch Cabinet, through the Foreign Affairs Ministry, had issued an immediate response. The Cabinet views the accusations as unfounded and asserts that such statements detract from the primary focus of the summit, which is the implementation of the Paris Agreement.
Support for Caribbean Territories
Minister Hermans reiterated that the Netherlands has been a steadfast advocate for the interests of the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom and will continue to do so in the European Union context throughout the COP29 summit. The Dutch government aims to secure robust climate agreements that benefit not only the European territories but also the Caribbean islands, which are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The Dutch Cabinet underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the COP29 discussions. Hermans stated that the summit is a space for meaningful dialogue and action on climate issues, rather than a venue for unfounded accusations. The Cabinet plans to formally communicate this stance to the COP29 presidency, reaffirming its commitment to the summit's objectives.
Pushing for Climate Ambitions
Minister Hermans concluded by emphasizing the Dutch government's dedication to its climate ambitions. The Cabinet is determined to make COP29 a success and intends to engage actively with other participants to negotiate solid agreements that address the pressing climate needs of both the Netherlands and its Caribbean territories.
The Dutch delegation, as planned, will focus on securing commitments that align with the Kingdom's broader climate goals, aiming to build a sustainable future for all its constituent parts.