Deputy Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley (L), receives a gift from State Secretary of Finance of the Netherlands Antilles, Alex Rosaria

The Netherlands Antilles' State Secretary of Finance, Alex Rosaria, was recently in Bridgetown where he was received by the Barbadian Deputy Prime Minister, Mia Mottley. During his meeting with Mottley, Rosaria explained the policy of the Netherlands Antilles regarding the Caribbean Region.

 “After years of behaving somewhat as indifferent onlookers, the Netherlands Antilles is pursuing a policy of being a committed neighbour,” according to Rosaria.

The Netherlands Antilles formally requested CARICOM late last year to become an associate member. Earlier this year, the Governments of Trinidad & Tobago and the Netherlands Antilles agreed to start negotiating a DTA.

“In this respect I am glad that Ms Mottley promised to support our application for an associate membership,” Rosaria stated.

Barbados is one of the most important CARICOM trading partners of the Netherlands Antilles. Trade and investment between the two Caribbean countries have been increasing in size and scope.

Given the increase in international trade between the two countries, the Government of the Netherlands Antilles is of the opinion that a tax treaty between the two would greatly benefit and enhance mutual trade and investment opportunities.

A Mutual Customs Assistance Treaty will make it possible for the customs’ administration of both countries to provide each other with assistance not only to prevent and combat customs offences, but especially to ensure the security of the international trade supply chain.

Rosaria extended an invitation to Mottley to visit the Netherlands Antilles in 2007.