WILLEMSTAD – Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas used his Flag Day address on Wednesday to launch what he described as a new era of "Nation Building," calling on all Curaçaoans to unite in building a stronger, more resilient country.
Speaking at Brionplein during the official Dia di Himno i Bandera ceremony, Pisas said the national flag represents far more than a symbol of the country.
"Our flag tells our story," he said. "It is the story of a people who have known challenges, sacrifice and difficult moments, but who have never lost hope for a better tomorrow."
Addressing Governor Mauritsz de Kort, Parliament President Fergino Brownbill, members of Parliament, government ministers, uniformed services and the public, Pisas emphasized that Curaçao's identity transcends political, social and neighborhood differences.
"When our flag flies, it does not ask which neighborhood we come from, what family we belong to or what our opinions are," he said. "It reminds us of one truth that we must never forget: before anything else, we are children of Curaçao."
According to the prime minister, the blue in the flag represents the sea and sky shared by all Curaçaoans, while the white symbolizes peace and purity. The two stars, he said, reflect the islands that make up the country and represent courage, resilience and faith.
Pisas said the celebration should not only honor the national flag and anthem but also serve as a reminder of the values that unite the people of Curaçao.
The prime minister formally declared July 2, 2026, as the beginning of a new phase of national development centered on the concept of Nation Building.
He stressed that the initiative is not intended as a government program or political slogan, but as a collective responsibility shared by all citizens.
According to Pisas, Nation Building means creating a Curaçao where children can dream big and have the opportunity to achieve those dreams, where young people no longer feel compelled to seek their future abroad, and where all residents can live with dignity.
He acknowledged that achieving those goals will require sacrifice, perseverance, unity and love for the country.
"We must once again believe in ourselves and in the strength of our people," he said. "The best chapters in a nation's history are always born out of challenges."
The prime minister concluded by urging Curaçaoans to honor the flag not only during national celebrations, but through everyday actions.
"We honor our flag when we treat one another with respect, when we help someone in need, when we work with integrity and when we put Curaçao first," he said.