WILLEMSTAD – Governor of Curaçao Mauritsz de Kort has expressed his appreciation to the individuals and organizations that provided assistance following the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, praising their solidarity and willingness to help people in need.
A special gathering was held Friday in the garden of the Governor’s Palace to recognize those who contributed to the emergency response, both in Venezuela and in Curaçao.
Among those attending were Venezuela’s Consul General in Curaçao, Marisol Gutiérrez de Almeida, and Economic Development Minister Roderick Middelhof, who represented the Curaçao government. Their presence highlighted the close ties and solidarity between Curaçao and Venezuela.
During the gathering, De Kort expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the relief effort in different capacities.
He specifically recognized the work of Dutch Defense personnel, who assisted in assessing the situation and identifying immediate humanitarian needs on the ground in Venezuela.
The Governor also acknowledged the efforts of CUSAR rescue personnel deployed to La Guaira, where they participated in searches for possible survivors.
Assistance Provided in Curaçao
De Kort also recognized the organizations and individuals who provided assistance in Curaçao, particularly to travelers who became stranded as a result of the emergency.
He thanked the Disaster Management Bureau, the Wognum family and their friends, Mr. Tieleman of Kunuku Aqua Resort and the Red Cross for their respective roles in providing accommodation, care and other forms of support.
In his remarks, the Governor said those involved in the response shared one fundamental conviction: a person in need should never be abandoned.
“You have shown that you are simply good people. People with their hearts in the right place,” De Kort said. “You are an example of what it means to be a true Yu di Kòrsou: someone who cares for others and offers help when it is needed most.”
Prayer and Recognition
A special moment during the gathering came when Father Julio offered a prayer of gratitude, thanking everyone who contributed to the relief effort. He subsequently gave a blessing to those who had provided assistance.
The prayer turned the gathering into not only an occasion for recognition, but also a moment of reflection, gratitude and solidarity.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Curaçao, De Kort expressed his deep appreciation to everyone who assisted during the emergency.
“This gathering is more than a word of thanks; it is an expression of recognition for your commitment, your courage and your humanity,” the Governor said.