WILLEMSTAD – Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas attended the Navy and Coast Guard Relations Day, an event highlighting investments in modern equipment and advanced technology aimed at strengthening maritime security and combating criminal activities in the waters surrounding Curaçao.
The event provided an opportunity to learn more about the capabilities of the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, including the equipment and technology used to monitor maritime activities, respond to emergencies and support law enforcement operations.
One of the highlights was a maritime demonstration conducted by the Coast Guard, featuring a helicopter, a Dash patrol aircraft, smaller patrol boats and a Coast Guard cutter.
The demonstration showcased how different maritime and aerial assets can work together to monitor territorial waters, detect suspicious activities and provide assistance when necessary.
The combined use of aircraft and vessels is particularly important for maritime surveillance in the Caribbean, where authorities must cover extensive areas of open water while responding to a variety of security challenges.
These include drug trafficking, human smuggling, illegal maritime activities and emergencies involving vessels or individuals at sea.
During the event, attention was also given to investments in modern technology and equipment designed to improve operational capabilities and strengthen cooperation between maritime security organizations.
Prime Minister Pisas expressed his appreciation for the daily work carried out by the Navy and Coast Guard to protect Curaçao and contribute to the safety of its population.
He acknowledged the importance of the personnel responsible for safeguarding the island's maritime environment and responding to situations that require immediate assistance.
The Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard plays an important role in maritime law enforcement, surveillance, search and rescue operations, and efforts to combat cross-border criminal activities in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Royal Netherlands Navy also contributes to regional security through its maritime presence, operational support and cooperation with local and international authorities.
For Curaçao, effective maritime security is essential because of the island's geographical location, its proximity to major shipping routes and its dependence on maritime activities for trade and economic development.
The Relations Day offered an opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of the organizations involved and reinforce the importance of continued cooperation in protecting Curaçao's waters.
Pisas emphasized the value of working together toward a safer Curaçao, recognizing the commitment of the Navy and Coast Guard personnel who carry out these responsibilities every day.