Curaçao Advances Strategic Partnerships With Europe To Boost Sustainable Growth

Recently, Curaçao’s Minister of Economic Development, Charles Cooper, led a successful trade mission to the Netherlands and Spain. The mission focused on expanding international partnerships and unlocking new investment opportunities for the island.

In The Hague, Minister Cooper and Minister Plenipotentiary Carlson Manuel attended a working dinner with 26 ambassadors to follow up on the Curaçao Connects initiative. The discussion centered on strengthening cooperation in key sectors, including renewable energy, the blue economy, education, welfare, creative industries, and IT. The Ministry of Economic Development (MEO) and the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary are now developing a structured follow-up program to convert these discussions into concrete projects.

Continuing the mission in Madrid, Minister Cooper met with UN Tourism, which praised Curaçao for its management of the tourism sector and impressive growth. The discussions emphasized the importance of maintaining sustainable development practices, and UN Tourism offered support programs to help advance the island’s sustainable tourism goals.

Minister Cooper also met with the Dutch Ambassador to Spain, Roel Nieuwenkamp. The meeting reaffirmed Spain’s support for Curaçao’s ambitions. Both parties agreed to strengthen bilateral relations, facilitate regular exchanges, and leverage embassy resources to promote business diplomacy for Curaçao in Spain.

A highlight of the mission was the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), CINEX, and the Spanish investment groups CBS Asset Management, S.L., and Via Appa Emerald, S.L. This agreement paves the way for a Spanish hotel chain to come to Curaçao, which is a significant milestone for the island’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment.

The visit concluded with a well-attended business dinner and networking session with over 35 influential Spanish entrepreneurs. This event offered valuable opportunities for Curaçaoan businesses to connect with their Spanish counterparts and explore future collaborations.

This mission exemplifies Curaçao’s proactive approach to international engagement, leveraging cultural ties and diplomatic relationships to promote sustainable economic growth, attract diverse investments, and establish the island as a competitive player on the global stage.