In May, 16 government officers from Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten took part in an online training programme organised by Clingendael Academy. During the training programme, they discussed external policy priorities of their individual countries as well as opportunities and challenges for regional cooperation. The participants spoke to a Member of European Parliament Ms. Samira Rafaela, shared views on EU relations with the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT’s) and how to increase their countries’ representation at the EU at the political level. The participants also strengthened their skills in negotiating and developed scenarios for the Kingdom’s external policy in 2033. Other topics included country branding, maritime security, and cyber diplomacy.

Finally, the course proved to be a unique opportunity for the government officers to exchange insights, analyse contemporary developments, broaden their network, and foster relationships between Aruba, Curaçao, The Netherlands and Sint Maarten.