Netherlands denies threatening to cut COVID aid to Aruba

THE HAGUE — The Dutch government denies ever threatening to suspend financial assistance to Aruba because of its low COVID-19 vaccination rate during the pandemic, according to a report published by dossierkoninkrijksrelaties.nl.

The denial came in response to parliamentary questions from FvD member Van Houwelingen, following statements by Aruba hospital director Vroegop, who claimed former State Secretary Blokhuis had made such a threat.

Minister Sterk rejected the allegation, maintaining that the Netherlands worked constructively with Aruban authorities and healthcare professionals throughout the pandemic.

However, the minister could not identify the specific meeting mentioned by Vroegop and therefore did not provide its agenda or minutes.