Van der Burg: ‘I want HOFA approved as soon as possible’

THE HAGUE – Dutch State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Eric van der Burg says his priority is not who completes the negotiations on HOFA, but that the process be finalized and approved as quickly as possible. He made the remarks during an interview with Tito Lacle of Noticiacla at a press conference.

Lacle asked whether Van der Burg's earlier comments—that it would be important for HOFA negotiations to be completed before Prime Minister Mike Eman leaves office—meant he preferred to conclude the process with Eman rather than with his successor.

Van der Burg responded that his main objective is for both the Aruba national legislation and the Kingdom Act to be approved so there is clarity on whether HOFA will move forward.

"It is up to Aruba's Parliament to decide whether to approve the national legislation. On my side, the Kingdom Act must still pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate."

According to the State Secretary, HOFA is important because it strengthens cooperation within the Kingdom and creates additional opportunities for Aruba.

"This is not about Mr. Eman personally. I simply want the process to move forward as quickly as possible."

He noted that he will continue working with Mike Eman over the next six months because the Prime Minister is familiar with the file and is working to secure support within his coalition.

When Lacle asked whether he had encouraged Eman to complete the process before leaving office, Van der Burg replied that HOFA is discussed every time they meet.

However, he stressed that it is ultimately up to Aruba's Cabinet and Parliament to secure a majority for the national legislation.

"I need that legislation to be approved first. Only then, if the Kingdom Act is also approved by both chambers of the Dutch Parliament, can I sign it and bring it into force."

Van der Burg concluded that completing both legislative processes as soon as possible is in everyone's interest.

Asked by Noticiacla whether he believes Prime Minister Mike Eman and his Cabinet support HOFA, Van der Burg answered:

"Yes. Mr. Eman and his Cabinet are positive about both the national legislation and HOFA."