WILLEMSTAD – The iconic Queen Emma Bridge, better known as the Pontoon Bridge, has been illuminated in the colors of the Venezuelan flag as Curaçao expresses its solidarity with neighboring Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country last week.
The Curaçao government said the symbolic gesture reflects the island's support for the Venezuelan people during one of the country's worst natural disasters in recent history. Authorities added that Curaçao and its residents stand ready to provide any assistance and support that may be needed.
Search and rescue operations remain the highest priority as emergency crews continue working to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. According to the latest reports, the disaster has claimed more than 2,200 lives, left more than 11,000 people injured, and thousands remain missing. Rescue teams from numerous countries continue to assist Venezuelan authorities in the affected areas.
The two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread destruction in several regions, particularly La Guaira and areas surrounding Caracas. Tens of thousands of buildings were damaged or destroyed, leaving many families homeless and creating an ongoing humanitarian emergency.
By lighting the Queen Emma Bridge in Venezuela's national colors, Curaçao joins other countries and organizations that have expressed sympathy and support for the victims as rescue efforts continue and relief operations transition toward humanitarian assistance.