THE HAGUE – Eric van der Burg has officially begun his role as State Secretary for the Interior and Kingdom Relations. On his first working day, Monday 23 February, his agenda focused on introductions and consultations, including meetings with the governors of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.
Van der Burg met with Alida Francis, John Soliano and Jonathan Johnson to immediately strengthen cooperation within the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. According to the new state secretary, close collaboration is essential for effective governance on both sides of the Atlantic.
He stressed that the Kingdom of the Netherlands consists of several countries and special municipalities, including Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten. In his view, cooperation within this structure should contribute to a strong economy and a society in which residents feel heard and represented.
Improving the functioning of government is one of Van der Burg’s key priorities. He stated that public administration must be clear, workable and predictable, allowing citizens to know where they stand and to have confidence in government institutions.
With his swearing-in, Van der Burg begins a new phase in which he aims to work toward a decisive and reliable government, while promoting close and respectful cooperation throughout the entire Kingdom.