Speech by the Prime Minister of Aruba, H.E. Nelson O. Oduber representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands Meeting of the Organization of Americas States and Permanent Observers Medellin, Colombia 1 June 2008
Secretary General, Mr. Insulza, Excellencies, amigos vecinos de America Latina and friends from the Caribbean, ladies and gentlemen, The Kingdom of the Netherlands is located in part in the Americas. This explains the great importance we attach to the relationship with this Organization and the Netherlands will continue to support the OAS where possible. In 2007 we contributed with nearly 1.6 million US$ to the Organization. The OAS has an important role to play in the challenges we face in the region and also on the funds available for youth and education. One of the issues that needs urgent attention is the development of the price of oil. This development has substantial effect on the countries throughout the region, the youth and democracy. This development with the price of oil rising so fast is a heavy burden for the economy of every country in the region, that has to import this vital product. Especially those countries that are so dependent on tourism will notice the effect on their service sector. High oil prices will lead to inflation. This in turn will force Governments to cut in their budgets for education and social projects. The effect on the lives of the people in the region will be profound. And, how can Democracy be encouraged if the price of oil affects basic cost of living, and the food we need daily? The Kingdom of the Netherlands commends the role of the OAS played recently in preserving and promoting stability in the region. Its mission to support the peace process in Colombia and its role as a mediator in the recent dispute in the Andes region are two major examples. The Netherlands will continue to support the OAS` efforts in Colombia (MAPP)with the contribution of one million euros a year until 23 January 2010. Human rights are one of the priorities of the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Therefore, the Kingdom of the Netherlands greatly respects the important work of the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights. We applaud the fact that cases are finding their way more easily to the Commission and the Court of the OAS and that the OAS members states respect and implement the courts` judgments.