ORANJESTAD – Leaders from 13 overseas countries and territories have gathered in Aruba for the 21st edition of the OCT-EU Forum, an annual platform for dialogue between the overseas territories of EU member states and the European Union.
The forum, organized under the Overseas Countries and Territories Association, focuses on strengthening cooperation between the territories and European institutions. The European Union is represented by Commissioner Jozef Síkela, while Eric van der Burg is attending on behalf of the Dutch government.
Aruba's Premier Mike Ema during the OCT-EU Forum
In his opening remarks, Aruba’s Prime Minister Mike Eman emphasized the importance of the relationship with the European Union for small island developing states.
“We are facing complex challenges in areas such as social development, public health, infrastructure, and security. International cooperation is key to achieving sustainable development,” Eman stated.
The forum’s agenda includes discussions on strategic cooperation in areas such as sustainable economic growth, rule of law, climate adaptation, and digital transformation. The ongoing global energy crisis is also expected to be addressed in discussions on the sidelines.
The multi-day event will conclude on Tuesday with an investment conference aimed at strengthening economic partnerships and attracting investment to the participating territories.
The OCT-EU Forum serves as a key platform for aligning priorities between the overseas territories and the European Union, particularly in addressing shared challenges and advancing long-term development goals.