THE HAGUE - The Dutch House of Representatives has invited State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Zsolt Szabó (PVV) to participate in a debate regarding the economic development of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The meeting is scheduled for February 12.
The economic future of Saba, Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten remains a significant agenda item for the Kingdom. During a recent budget debate, several members of Parliament, including Aukje de Vries (VVD) and Henk Vermeer (BBB), sought clarity on the Netherlands' plans for economic growth in the Caribbean islands.
Szabó emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and local initiatives, highlighting targeted Dutch investments in food security, roads, and ports. However, there was some debate regarding the focus on infrastructure over other areas of economic development. Szabó defended this approach by stating that sustainable growth relies on robust foundational services.