PHILIPSBURG:--- “I have taken note of the public statements made by Prime Minister Rutte, including his regret that they remained at an impasse within the coalition of four parties. The political decision to tender the resignation of the entire cabinet now means new elections will be called, allowing the people of the Netherlands to resolve the issue.
While instability in coalition governments is nothing new in the Dutch Kingdom, we trust that this latest disagreement, at a political level based on immigration policies in the Netherlands, will not negatively impact the improving relations within the Kingdom, including our ongoing discussions on the loans, availability of funding for sustainable development projects, climate change & actions following the apology for the Dutch government’s role in slavery past on its former colonies.
It is commendable how well Prime Minister Rutte speaks of the good working relationship, despite the disagreement on policy areas related to migration. So, I look forward to continuing dialogue on the areas of interest for the Island Nations in the Kingdom.
The State Secretary has already indicated that the talks will continue as planned as they are a going concern for all concerned, which is somewhat reassuring.
I look forward to the meetings planned this week in preparation for the upcoming Kingdom Council of Ministers (RMR) meeting for further clarity to be given by the Dutch Government on the way forward.” -Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs Silveria Jacobs
