Aruban Government Expresses Solidarity with Venezuela and Prepares Humanitarian Assistance
ORANJESTAD – The Government of Aruba has expressed its deep solidarity with the people of Venezuela following the devastating earthquake that struck the country, resulting in significant loss of life and extensive property damage, particularly in the La Guaira area.
This morning, Prime Minister Mike Eman met with Rino Hermans, Director of the Crisis Management Office (CMO), Aruba Police Force Chief Ramon Arnhem, and Susan de Lange of the Aruba Security Service (VDA). The meeting focused on assessing the situation and coordinating the initial steps Aruba may take in response to the disaster.
Following the meeting, the government established contact with the Consul of Venezuela in Aruba, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Caracas, Carmen Gonsalves, and several agencies within the Kingdom to obtain the most up-to-date information and determine how Aruba can provide assistance.
“We express our solidarity with the Venezuelan community and with the nation of Venezuela, while also making clear that Aruba stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance in any way possible,” Prime Minister Mike Eman stated.
According to information received by the government, La Guaira is among the hardest-hit areas, and the death toll continues to rise. Ambassador Gonsalves reported that all personnel of the Dutch Embassy survived the earthquake. Two employees lost their homes due to the extensive damage, but so far there are no indications that any Arubans have been affected by the disaster.
“The next 48 hours will be critical for professional search-and-rescue teams as they work to reach individuals who may still be trapped beneath collapsed buildings,” Prime Minister Eman said.
The Prime Minister noted that Aruba remains in close contact with the relevant authorities within the Kingdom to determine what assistance the island can provide to Venezuela. He recalled Aruba’s experience in delivering humanitarian aid following natural disasters, including its support efforts after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.
“We have the necessary experience and are preparing to assist Venezuela, particularly in search-and-rescue operations for individuals who may still be trapped under collapsed structures.”
Prime Minister Eman also expressed his support for the Venezuelan community in Aruba and acknowledged the uncertainty many families are currently facing.
“We want to express our solidarity with the Venezuelan community in Aruba. I can only imagine how many families are living with fear and uncertainty at this moment.”
Regarding the planned reopening of air connections with Venezuela, the Prime Minister indicated that the matter had already been discussed during Tuesday’s Council of Ministers meeting.
“This issue was discussed by the Council of Ministers. We will evaluate whether the original plan to resume flights on August 1 remains feasible, given the current conditions at Maiquetía International Airport. If circumstances permit, air connections may be opened immediately to facilitate humanitarian assistance.”
For assistance and information, individuals may contact the Crisis Management Office (CMO) at +588 0100. Aruba’s Department of Foreign Affairs can be reached at +583 4705, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Caracas at +58 21 22 76 93 00.
The Government of Aruba will continue to monitor developments closely and will keep the public informed as additional official information becomes available.