Aruba Strengthens Regional Cooperation at the CFATF Council of Ministers Meeting in Panama

October 7, 2025

Aruba continues to demonstrate strong leadership in promoting transparency and sound financial governance. Last week, the Council of Ministers Meeting of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) was held in Panama City, where Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector Geoffrey Wever represented Aruba. Minister Wever led the Aruban delegation in discussions with fellow ministers from across the region, focusing on strengthening cooperation to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism, key priorities for maintaining a stable and trusted financial system.

Regional Partnerships for Sustainable Financial Growth

During the meeting, Minister Wever met with Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Cayman Islands, Mr. André Ebanks, to exchange ideas on strategies for expanding and fortifying the financial sectors of small island economies. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared goal of advancing sound financial practices and sustainable economic development across the Caribbean. Also present was Minister of Justice of St. Maarten, Ms. Nathalie Tackling, who shared insights from St. Maarten’s recent mutual evaluation by the CFATF. Minister Wever, in turn, presented Aruba’s positive 2021 evaluation results and expressed the island’s readiness to share its effective approach with neighboring jurisdictions.

Aruba’s Role in Strengthening Regional Financial Systems

Minister Wever underscored the importance of active engagement in regional platforms such as the CFATF, highlighting that such participation helps enhance investor confidence, promote transparency, and ensure continued progress in the fight against financial crime.

“By maintaining strong regional partnerships and upholding international standards, Aruba demonstrates its ongoing dedication to a safe, transparent, and trusted financial environment, essential for sustainable investment and economic development,” said Minister Wever.

Aruba’s continued participation in the CFATF reinforces the island’s commitment to good governance and international compliance, strengthening its reputation as a reliable and attractive investment destination in the Caribbean.

 


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