Visit of Minister Brekelmans underscores importance of stability in the Caribbean region

Recent developments between the United States and Venezuela have caused concern, mainly due to the US military operation last weekend in which President Maduro was captured. “I understand those concerns well. But the situation does not pose a direct threat to the islands. Not in recent months, not in recent days, and not now,” said Brekelmans.

Nevertheless, Defence remains vigilant and alert. HNLMS Groningen therefore conducts patrols around the ABC islands. The minister himself boarded the ship that took him from Curaçao to Bonaire. Brekelmans: “With the deployment of HNLMS Groningen, we contribute to calm and confidence. The ship is our ears and eyes in the area.”

Brekelmans concluded his four-day visit in Bonaire, after which he returned today.

The minister began his visit at the Aruban marine barracks Savaneta, where Defence’s main tasks are clearly visible. The marines train here in detail. Meanwhile, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and Coast Guard make an important contribution to combating crime on the island. The Aruban military is also ready to provide assistance.

On Sint Maarten, the minister visited the marine detachment. Over the past year, the stationed marines have repeatedly assisted the Sint Maarten Police Corps, including in December during public order enforcement. They are also ready to provide emergency aid, such as during hurricane season. The detachment’s motto is “Always helpful.”

At the Parera naval base on Curaçao, the minister was briefed on recent assistance in Jamaica. Support vessel HNLMS Pelikaan provided emergency aid last November after the Caribbean island was severely hit by Hurricane Melissa. “By delivering food, medical supplies, and shelters to Jamaica, the crew performed a great task,” emphasized Brekelmans. The ship is permanently in the region to support transport, supply, and movement of units.

The minister spoke with the governors, prime ministers, local administrators, and kingdom representatives of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The importance of cooperation to guarantee stability was discussed. Brekelmans: “The security of the Kingdom is and remains the primary responsibility of Defence.”

The Commander of the Naval Forces in the Caribbean (CZMCARIB) accompanied the minister during his visit this week. CZMCARIB is area-responsible and permanently present in the region with various units. As an advanced post, he is the first point of contact for local authorities and representatives of various departments.