THE HAGUE – The Dutch government is placing the Caribbean part of the Kingdom more prominently within its geopolitical strategy concerning Venezuela, energy security, and regional stability.
That conclusion emerges from answers provided by Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen to the Dutch House of Representatives ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council meeting of May 11, 2026.
According to the Dutch cabinet, the situation in Venezuela is currently more stable than several months ago and there is no immediate security threat to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The government also states it is prepared to play “a constructive role” in the future economic recovery of Venezuela and in the emergence of new economic opportunities tied to the country.
The cabinet describes the recent restoration of Dutch diplomatic presence in Venezuela as a first step in this renewed approach.
The answers further indicate that The Hague is holding “frequent consultations” with the Caribbean countries within the Kingdom, including Aruba and Curaçao, regarding policy direction toward Venezuela.
The documents point to a noticeable shift in Dutch regional policy.
In recent years, discussions surrounding Venezuela and the Dutch Caribbean primarily focused on migration, border security, sanctions, and regional military risks. The new approach places greater emphasis on diplomacy, economic cooperation, and strategic regional positioning.
The changing policy comes amid broader geopolitical tensions in the Caribbean and northern South America following instability in Venezuela earlier this year.
For Curaçao and Aruba, the developments are particularly relevant because of their geographic location near Venezuela and their role as logistical and maritime hubs within the region.