WILLEMSTAD – Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs Heleen Herbert emphasized the importance of sustainable economic growth, innovation, and investment in workers during a keynote address at a dinner organized by the Curaçao Business Association (Vereniging Bedrijfsleven Curaçao, VBC).
Curaçao's Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, Sithree van Heydoorn, attended the event at the invitation of VBC, joining representatives of the business community for discussions on economic development and cooperation.
Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs Heleen Herbert and Curaçao's Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, Sithree van Heydoorn
During her keynote address, Herbert stressed that sustainable economic growth requires more than positive financial results or increased economic activity. According to the Dutch minister, long-term prosperity depends on investments in sustainability, innovation, workforce development, and employee well-being.
Herbert highlighted the importance of creating favorable conditions for businesses to establish themselves, expand their operations, and contribute to economic development.
Among the essential conditions she identified were adequate infrastructure, access to financing, and the availability of qualified personnel.
These factors, she explained, are fundamental to creating an environment in which businesses can innovate, remain competitive, and generate sustainable employment opportunities.
The Dutch minister also emphasized the opportunities that arise when governments and the private sector work together with a long-term vision and a solution-oriented approach.
Her remarks highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing economic challenges and creating opportunities for future development.
Van Heydoorn Emphasizes Importance of Cooperation
Reflecting on his participation, Minister Van Heydoorn said he considers meetings such as the VBC Dinner important because they create opportunities for dialogue and collaboration between government officials and business representatives.
The minister expressed his belief that cooperation is essential for achieving sustainable economic and social progress.
"I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, between government and the private sector, as well as within the Kingdom," Van Heydoorn stated.
He emphasized that sharing knowledge, experiences, and opportunities can help strengthen relationships and create new possibilities for economic development.
According to Van Heydoorn, cooperation between Curaçao and its partners within the Kingdom of the Netherlands can contribute to identifying solutions and supporting long-term development.
His participation also underscored the connection between education, workforce development, and economic growth, particularly as businesses increasingly require employees with specialized knowledge and skills.
Workforce Development Central to Sustainable Growth
One of the central messages of Herbert's address was that economic development must go hand in hand with investment in people.
A qualified workforce, supported by education, professional development, and appropriate working conditions, is essential for businesses seeking to grow and adapt to changing economic circumstances.
The emphasis on employee well-being also reflected the broader principle that sustainable development should benefit not only businesses and investors but also the people whose work contributes to economic activity.
Herbert's remarks placed workforce development alongside infrastructure, financing, and innovation as essential elements of a sustainable economic environment.
Strengthening Partnerships for the Future
The VBC Dinner provided a platform for discussing how public institutions and private businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient economy.
The discussions emphasized the need for a long-term approach in which economic growth, environmental responsibility, innovation, and social well-being reinforce one another.
For Van Heydoorn, the gathering demonstrated the value of maintaining dialogue with the business community and strengthening cooperation within the Kingdom.
He expressed confidence that exchanging expertise and working together can create new opportunities for Curaçao's economic and social development.
The central message of the event was that sustainable prosperity requires coordinated efforts from government, businesses, and educational institutions, supported by investment in people and the conditions necessary for long-term economic growth.