Successful External Policy Training for Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten

In April, twenty government officials from Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten participated in a Clingendael Academy digital training programme on external policy. Over the course of two weeks, the group delved into key cross-cutting themes in diplomacy for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The main objective of the programme was to provide participants the opportunity to exchange perspectives on the Kingdom’s foreign policy priorities and its relation to the three countries’ national priorities. Furthermore, the course helped participants navigate current international developments and develop relevant skills. Workshops covered effective influencing, international negotiations, intercultural communication, and scenario‑building. Expert lectures addressed the changing geopolitical landscape, China’s engagement with the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom, maritime security (in the Caribbean), and European Union law. 

Participants also took part in conversation with representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth and the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations.

This allowed for collective reflection and gave opportunity to identify shared priorities and ways forward in international collaboration within the Kingdom. Among others, participants raised importance of knowledge sharing between the four countries, strengthening (cyber) security, preparing for climate change and economic shocks, and improving island representation within the Kingdom. We are happy that this programme was able to facilitate a platform for closer alignment and cooperation. 

It was a rewarding and special occasion to welcome and train officials from the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. We truly appreciate their active participation, insights and constructive reflections and look forward to following their continued work in diplomacy.