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araba
economic monthlq - vol. Ill, nr. 6, julq 1961
the West Indies
mixed with a dash of Holland hospitality-on an island lamed for its beauty and heavenly weathecl
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AN ECONOMIC MONTHLY Vol. Ill, nr. 6, July 1961
2ii
(Admintetrafeu'r)
A PUBLICATION SPONSORED BY THE ARUBA TRADE AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
Contents of this Issue
PUBLISHER’S PAGE
PAGINA De LOS PUBLICADORES
DATELINE MANHATTAN
PROGRESS WITH LIBERTY
ARUBA TRADE AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
ARUBA TRADE AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
THE INCIDENT OF THE SEVEN VENEZUELAN FUGITIVES
I GAF ARUBA’S ECONOMIE
A PLEA FOR SHUTTLE FLIGHTS IN N.A.
3 FUGITIVOS
RTC COMUNIQUE EN I LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
TRANS CARIBBEAN AIRWAYS AND JETFLIGHTS ABADAN WARY OF IRAN REFORMS;
FEARS OIL EXPORTS BE HURT PROFESSOREN LIEFTINCK EN GOEDHART VOLGENDE MAAND NAAR DE ANTILLEN HULP SPECIAL FUND VOOR DE ANTILLEN
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A X ba . D NeÍ eS SÍl
A X baD Ne«Íi;
Cut on dotted lii
Of Aruba”, P.O.
200, St. Nicolaas, Aruba,
. herewith kindly request you lately at the low rates now in >sed my postal money order/' ;r equivalent. My address is
(street)
(city)
(country)
Publisher’s Page
By: Morris Serphos Jr.
On May 29 the Second Round Table Conference between the Netherlands, Surinam and the Netherlands Antilles was opened by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Prof. Dr. de Quay. The purpose of the Conference is to discuss and investigate the necessity to change certain clauses of the Kingdom Constitution, (Statuut van het Koninkrijk der Nederlanden) as entered into on December 29, 1954. The initiative of this Conference now was taken by the Government and Parliament of Surinam, over the very cool reception by the other two parts of the Kingdom.
Since however ,any such Conference has to be held, on the request of any of the Kingdom parts, the objections were qualmed. The reasons of the objections of the Netherlands and the Netherlands Antilles were manifold. The Netherlands Government rightly or wrongly must feel, that a Conference to alter the Constitution, reigning the connections with the former American Colonies of Holland at the present time, shortly after the debacle of Belgian policies in the Congo and at the time of bloody skirmishes in Portugal’s overseas provinces, seems to be very inopportune. The United Nations Organisation, already heavily influenced by many newborn nations in Africa and smartly infiltrated by Communist and semiCommunist nations, might avail itself of this opportunity to throw the Netherlands (diplomatically, no doubt, but for all the world to see) in the dungeons, as such bringing discredit to another West European nation, strongly aligned with NATO. The objections of the Netherlands Antilles as manifested by the Head of the Delegation, Prime Minister E. Jonckheer, are to be called very sound indeed. His Excellency in his opening speech thought it unwise to create an unfounded impression in the Caribbean area and Latin America, that the Netherlands Antilles are not the politically stable country, it so evidently is The short distance between the Netherlands Antilles and Cuba, only just over 1 hour flying time by jet aircraft, in this connection is of extreme importance. The Netherlands Antilles until now have not felt any influence of Communist infiltration, such as is presently felt in many surrounding countries. To the extent, that to maintain the impression of stabilisation in the Netherlands Antilles, the Government of the Netherlands Antilles, strongly backed by a unanimous resolution of the Chamber of Representatives, is willing to sacrifice some points of discussion, that no doubt in reality do exist. The influence of the economic and financial policy of our Government on the political constellation of the Netherlands Kingdom
seems obvious. It may be assumed truthfully, that the Ministers of Finance and Economy of the Netherland Antilles have convinced the Chamber of Representaives and all others, that the fruits of the present economic development plans and measures, such as industrialisation with backing from the United States and Europe, the promotion of tourism, etc. can only be picked entirely, if the political situation of the Netherlands Antilles, seen on the International level, is not subject to changes. In this connection it has been felt by our authorities that the backing of the stable Netherlands Government and its proven judicial system, are a distinct advantage. What can happen to countries, that have failed to realize this important fact, has been demonstrated by the developments in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Cuba and Venezuela. There remains no doubt in the minds of the business community of Aruba, that the objectives of the Netherlands Antilian Government, as aired by the Antilian Prime Minister in this respect, merit the wholehearted support.
A matter of dissatisfaction to the Netherlands Antilles and particularly the oil industry, but on the other hand also the entire business community, were the results of another session of the Council of the European Common Market in Brussels, where the admission of Greece was practically agreed upon, but where the Association of the Netherlands Antilles once again was subject to strong objection on the part of the French Government. Undoubtedly the French Government is holding out for heavy import restrictions of petroleum products from the Netherlands Antilles. Of course no such restrictions are expected for French petroleum from the Sahara. Apparently the influence of the French Government continues so strong, that the association of the Netherlands Antilles can be successfully blocked for too long a period. Although our country has high hopes for export of other industrial products to the European Common Market, the petroleum export is a matter of life and death to this country in view of the heavy dominance of the oil refining industry on the Netherlands Antillian economy. Continued efforts by the Government of the Netherlands Ki igdom should be forthcoming and it may be expected that the long awaited association will have to materialize before long.
It has been announced by the Aruba Island Government, that the Head of the Public Works Department of Aruba, on August 8, 1961 at 11 a.m. will receive closed covers, containing competitive bids for the
2
excavation of the new industrial harbour, an access canal over the reef to this harbour, the filling of the lagoon and other accessory works ,on the southcoast of Aruba, near Barcadera. This harbor will be the industrial harbour of Aruba, for the Chemical Industry projects. Bids will be accepted from Construction Firms from all parts of the world, that are interested in the project. The specifications may by obtained from the mentioned Head of the Public Works Department, Oranjestad, Aruba. As such the first important steps will be taken toward the realisation of the industrial emergency projects of Aruba as projected and accepted by the proper authorities and as described in detail in earlier issues of this publication.
On June 18 the Annual Convention of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas will be held in the Aruba Caribbean Hotel Casino in Aruba. This is a Convention of major importance on this Continent of
which this island has high hopes. Elsewhere in this issue and in July’s issue we will present highlights of the Conference, major speeches, adopted resolutions, etc. It is expected that delegates from practically all countries of Latin America, the Caribbean area and the United States will attend. From this page we gladly, proudly and wholeheartedly extend a cordial welcome to the Executives of the Chamber, the delegates, the special invited guests and members of their family, especially on behalf of the Aruba Trade and Industry Association. We hope that in the relaxed and enjoyable atmosfere of Aruba, the Conference will reach new hights in their aims. We can assure you, that everything possible will be done by our Association, as well as your hosts, the Aruba Chamber of Commerce, to make your stay a memorable affair, for years to come!
Página de los publicadores
por Morris Serphos hijo
El día 29 de mayo la R.T.C. entre los Países Bajos, Surinam ylas Antillas Neerlandesas se inauguró por el Presidente del Consejo de Ministros, el Profesor Dr. de Quay. El propósito de esta conferencia es discutir e investigar la necesidad de cambiar algunas cláusulas de la Constitución del Reino (Statuut). Este decreto se realizó el 29 de diciembre de 1954. El gobierno y el parlamento de Surinam tomaron la iniciativa de esta conferencia contra los deseos de los otros dos partidos. Pero desde que tal conferencia debe efectuarse si uno de los partidos lo desea, los inconvenientes se pusieron a un lado. Las razones de las objeciones de los Países Bajos y las Antillas Neerlandesas son muchas. Con o sin motivo el gobierno holandés tiene que sentir que una conferencia para cambiar el Estatuto en este tiempo directamente después del desastre de la política belga en el Congo y en el tiempo de las escaramuzas sangrientas en las provincias ultramares del Portugal son muy inoportunos. La ONU ya está bastante afectada por muchas recien creadas naciones en Africa y bien infiltrada por naciones comunistas y semi-comunistas que usarán este oportunidad para desacreditar a Holanda (diplomáticamente sin duda pero visible para todo el mundo) para hacer caer en discredito a las naciones de Europa Occidental miembros de la NATO. Eran muy solidas las razones del Presidente del Consejo de Ministros, el señor E. Jonckheer, que declaró que encontraba imprudente crear una mala impresión en el area del Caribe y America latina, como si las Antillas Neerlandesas fuesen desequilibriadas, cosa que no es verdad. En esta conección no se debe olvi dar la cercanía de Cuba. Hasta ahora en las Antillas Neerlandesas no hubo alguna infiltración del comunismo, tal como sí es el caso en los países alrededores de nosotros. El gobierno antillano apoyado por una unánime resolución de la Cámara de Representantes está dispuesto a sacrificar unos puntos de discusión. La influencia de los asuntos económicos sobre las ideas políticas es evidente. Las frutas del desarrollo económico y de la promoción del turismo y la industrialización solamente pueden ser escogidas cuando la situación política no cambie.
Nuestras autoridades realizan que el apoyo del estable gobierno holandés y su sistema judicial eficaz son ventajas claras. Lo que puede suceder a países que no se dan cuenta de esta realidad importante se demostró por los acontecimientos en la República Dominicana, Haití, Cuba y Venezuela.
A la comunidad comercial de Aruba no le cabe duda de que el objectivo del gobierno antillano merece sincero apoyo.
El resultado de la session en Bruxelas del consejo del Mercado Europeo Común fué una desilusión para las Antillas Neerlandsas. El gobierno francés resistió otra vez fuertemente la asociación de las Antillas Neerlandesas para evitar competencia con el petróleo de la Sahara. Aparentemente la influencia del gobierno francés sigue siendo tan fuerte que la asociación de las Antillas Neerlandesas puede ser obstruida con éxito por un período demasiado largo. La exportación de petróleo es de interés vital para nosotros, aunque esperamos exportar otros productos industriales en el futuro. El gobierno del Reino Holandés
3
hace cuanto esté a su alcance para real zar la asociación y esperamos que al fin logrará vencer la oposición francesa y que la tanto tiempo esperada asociación tenga lugar pronto.
El gobierno de la isla Aruba notificó que el 8 de agosto de 1961 a las 11 a.m. estará abierta la licitac ón para la excavación de un puerto _:ucvo, un canal de entrada sobre el arrecife y el rellenar de la laguna con otros trabajos adicionales en la costa del sur de Araba cerca de Bar cadera. Este puerto servirá para la industria quimiea. Licitaciones serán aceptadas de firmas constructoras de todas partes del mu.:do que estén interesadas en estos proyectos. Especificaciones de este trabajo se pueden obtener del Jefe del Departamento de Trabajos Públicos, Oranjestad, Aruba.
Da Convención anual de la Cámara de Comercio de las Américas se celebrará el 18 de junio de 1961 en el Araba Caribbean Hotel Casi .o. Es una convención muy importante en este continente. En esta edición y en la de julio les presentaremos los pun.os culminantes de la conferencia, los discursos pronunciados, las resoluciones tomadas etc. etc. Esperamos diputados de todos los países de la América del Norte y del Sur.
La ATIA desea cordialmente la. bienvenida a los ejecutivos, los diputados y sus familiares. Esperamos que en el ambiente solaz y agradable de Aruba la convención será un gran éxito. .Les podemos asegurar que nuestra Asociación y su huésped, la Cámara de Comercio Avubano, haremos todo lo posible para que su residencia aquí sea un recuerdo inolvidable.
Ideal picnic place with the lazy music of rustling palmtrees.
Dateline Manhattan Tour The West Indies? Why?
By Max Tak
Some time ago I had the pleasure of a lunch with a highly gifted career woman of the American press. Her name is Theodate Johnson, president and chief editor of MUSICAL AMERICA, the leading monthly in the musical field. She is one of the genuine reporters who consider it a necessity to see for themselves what is going on in other countries. And do not think it satisfactory only to read about it.
Theodate Johnson does a magnificent job and impresses her readers by her authoritative judgement that when the opportunity was offered to her — (opportunities only once in a lifetime come to individuals and to communities) to buy the magazine, she was enabled to become the owner of the magazine and made it a publication which even in the United States is without competition.
Mrs. Johnson has an outspoken preference for everything West European and not only has the ability to judge her own field in an expert way, but also has a vivid interest in the important events outside the musical territory.
She is one of the outstanding personalities in my profession with whom I like to discuss political events. And when we spoke at the lunch about West-East controversies of the explosive nature everybody is conscious of, Mrs. Johnson said: ’’You know.there is an
important development in the diplomatic field. Because diplomacy uses more and more artists, in the first place musicians, to further political aims of which is the first to weaken political tension. The Russians send us great performers like their magnificent dancers and both Oistrakhs, we send them also dancers, soloists like Isaac Stern and orchestras like the Philadelphian. The cultural exchange between West and East is going on and on and that is excellent, I believe the use of musicians in this respect will grow and grow. Nobody can underestimate the importance of this development.
This opinion of the president-owner of a publication which is read everywhere in the United States and in many other countries reflects also the opinion of many other prominent journalists.
The conversation with Theodate Johnson came up in my mind when another American journalist recently gave his opinion about more or less the same subject. More or less.because he connects ’’export” of Ame
rican musicians with tourism. And it is not too complicated to discover a kind of a link between politics and tourism.
The journalist I have in mind is Ross Parmenter, for many years an excellent influential reporter of the music section of the New York Times. Mr. Parmenter discovered the exceptional qualities of the Netherlands String Quartet, at the occasion of its New York debut. The success of this group, which for the 3rd consecutive season, will tour the United States in 1961/62, is
certainly also due to the enthusiastic review of Mr. Parmenter.
Recently Mr. Parmenter wrote an article which, I presume, cannot fail to interest the readers of ECHO. They will certainly discover the importance of Mr. Parmenter’s writing.behind the lines.
A few years ago Mr. Parmenter wrote, if a concert artist were to tell his friends that he was going to tour the West Indies, the response would have probably from ’’Are you crazy?” to ”So what?” But times have changed. A young pianist is starting such a tour that interestingly reflects some of those far reaching changes. First there is the growing importance of concert music in new areas. This is shown by the island that unknowingly started the idea for this particular tour. It was Martinique. Music lovers on the French West Indies islands began asking the State Department if it could send them a concert artist. They made the request because they knew the United States was using musicians in its ’’specialists program”. But they made the request very apologetically; they had no really good piano and few facilities. The State Department decided to accede to the request. The loss of Cuba’s friendship has made people in Washington much more aware of the need for retaining and even augmenting the friendly feelings of the other Caribbean communnities.
So why not send a musician, not only to Martinique but to a number of other West Indian islands as well? And the coming independence of the British West Indian Federation and Jamaica’s proximity to Cuba made it seem wise to be especially nice to that island. Perhaps Jamaica should be given as many as six or seven concerts — all provided by the United States.
The fact that the tour was arranged and is being financed by the United States reflects of course, the relatively new use of musicians as semi-political weapons. And the tour shows the sort of thinking that influences how areas are selected for musical favors. Finally, the tour shows how the United States is at last doing something to aid its young musicians — at least abroad.
In this case, Mr. Parmenter continues, there is a particular poetic justice in the young artist who is getting the break of a paid Government tour with the opportunity to appear before so many audiences, who, being West Indians, are sure to be implusively friendly. She is Gladys Stein, a pianist who made her debut in 1950 and whose career, for nearly ten years made discouragingly little headway. Finally, however, Miss Stein took her life, and most of her savings into her hands. She hired Carnegie Hall on February 9, 1960 for, of all things, a program devoted only to the three posthumous Sonatas of Schubert. She had the skill and musical understanding to pull it off, and the next morning she
5
found herself hailed not only as an interesting musician, but one with a ’’tremendous potential for growth”. The tour, undoubtedly, will help foster that potential.
Expressions, used by Mr. Parmenter, cannot have escaped the attention of ECHO’S readers. ’’The relatively new use of musicians as semi-political weapons” is one of them. Another interesting statement is that the authorities of Martinique asked the State Department to send them a concert pianist because ’’they knew the United States was using musicians in the ’’specialists program”.
There is, however, much more to consider in connection with the subject brought up in this column. For instance: The University of Michigan Symphony Band, composed of 94 students of this great institution, returned some days ago from a tour behind the Iron Curtain. It toured extensively in the U.S.R.R., in Middle Eastern countries and through Eastern European countries. The success of this enterprise was tremendous. In Russia, for instance, the audiences, wild with enthusiasm, stormed the stage after the official program and compelled the young Americans — 94 goodwill ambassadors — to play encore after encore. The same happened in Baku, in Erevan, Brasoy, etc. etc.
The tour was sponsored by the Department of State as part of the President’s International Cultural Exchange Program, which is administered by the American National Theatre and Academy. And in the reports this correspondent has read about the tour which also promoted the art of American composers under the leadership of highly gifted conductor William D. Hevelli, there was an undeniable element of pride. Which was justified for 100%. This achievement was a splendid American cultural message to people, who in case they really believe their governmental radio, are nourished day after day with the kind of official propaganda which is notorious for its misrepresentation of facts. In case these facts are related to achievements of Western Powers.
People who attended the concerts given by American musicians, will think about what these visitors did on behalf of mutual understanding.
And what has Aruba to do with all this ?
I presume that this is abundantly clear.
Maybe, it could serve a purpose when this column concludes with a Dutch proverb: Een goed verstaander heeft aan een half woord genoeg.
Progress with Liberty
Under this name the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas held its eleventh annual meeting in Oranjestad, Aruba from June 19 through June 22, 1961.
The convention was one big success, from start to finish.
Our gracious guests say: Owing to our hosts, to their excellent organization, such as we have never experienced before, and, last but not least, to the real friendliness of the Aruban population, which, together with what they have to offer in attractions, make Aruba to a tourist resort par excellence.
The Arubans say: Owing to our guests, Did you ever see such a pleasant group of ladies and gentlemen ? Moreover ,they gave us food for thought. Everything they brought was on a high level.
These are two explanations of the same fact, namely that the convention was a success.
There is a third explanation: The convention marks an important milestone in the life of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas because of the timely theme that was chosen:: Liberty with progress.
In the following issues of the Echo excerpts and transcripts will be given of resolutions taken, speeches given, all dealing with this theme and from them will arise the conviction that our society does offer a philosophy that can successfully counterbalance and
. override, the outmoded, untrue and hopelessly
conservative philosophy of communism, to say nothing of tyrannical, imperialistic methods of soviet states.
This was a group of realistic businessmen, who strongly feel their duty towards society, who know that words are necessary to convey their thoughts, but who then inmediately want to take action, want to take the initiative.
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Their thoughts will be translated into action aud, consequently, will have some remarkable impac^ upon their respective societies. Being realistic, the delegates of this convention, representing a multitude of members, of businessmen with real power, do uot ignore local difficulties, but they will surmount all difficulties, because the kernel of their philosopy is:
Not power, but justice shall prevail.
It is due to the present situation in which North and South America find itself, that this 11th convention happens to be of paramount interest to the Western Hemisphere and that our small island in the Caribbean has seen the beginning of a change that ultimately will make the two Americas a bullwark for liberty aud will convert them in an economic unity. This will certainly come about, because the alternative would be death, and, again, it is a law of nature, that life conquers death. Therefore, the prediction is a very safe one, provided that we really want to live and are not consumed by a wish to commit suicide. Contemplating this, it was a real pleasure for your observer to be able to participate the convention.
Unfortunately .there is not enough time left to describe the convention completely in this issue. Some highlights must suffice for the moment.
The first speaker was Dr. Mauricio Obregou and his theme: Capitalism or Socialism. This speech will appear in full ,as soon as available. From our notes we could give you an excerpt, but it will be far more renumerating to have this speech as edited by Dr. Obregon of Bogota, because his speech contains all the fundamental features of the controversy.
The high level, introduced by Dr. Obregon, was maintained throughout the convention, the brillance of the delivery, however, was, in our opinion, unexcelled.
For the present we will now simply list some speeches, that will later on be given in excerpts or in full.
Mr. Roberto Suero: The threat to free enterprise.
Mr. Suero represented Cuba, that is free Cuba.
Mr. Alfred Canel: Private enterprise to endure must benefit all.
Senator Claude Pepper: Financing low-cost housi lg. Another highly practical theme, taken from practical life. Under the procedure described, houses are being built in Chile and in Guatemala.
Mr. Oscar Siegfried Henriquez: The economy in Aruba. The delegates were visibly impressed by this simple listing of what actually has been done in an economy with no recourses at all, a rock even lacking water. The results of organization, energy and willpower are there for everyone to view. An excellent address, eloquent in its simplicity.
Mr. Charles B. Debrot: Free exchange of statistics. This was delivered by Mr. Jesurun, delegate from Curacao, because Mr. Debrot was working for the benefit of all those present in Washington.
Minister Ciro D. Kroon, who spoke about growth
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of the population and the ensuing difficulties. This • was another speech that influenced to a high degree the thinking of the delegates in the days to come. At this luncheon, held in charming Basi Ruti Hotel, the Consul of Venezuela expressed his regret that the delegates from Venezuela were not present, also his trust m the Bolivar, in the future development of Venezuela and in the good relationship with its neighbours. &
Mr. Odis S. Mingus: Industrialization of Aruba. A description from past to present with some future views. Mr. Mingus is an extremely clever speaker, who confines himself to one topic only and brings that forcefully in such a way that one remembers.
Mr. Roberto Gomez Hinestrosa: Latin America free trade association. This Latin Common market is the only solution of the problem how to enhance the standard of living in Latin America. It is a fact that during the course of seven years the index price of the industrial commodities Latin America has to buy increased by 15% and in the same period the raw material that Latin America sells decreased by 35%. This gives an indication of the dilemma with which Latin America is confronted, a dilemma that can be solved by greater
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economic unity and planning. Small wonder that the audience hung on Mr. Gomez’ lips.
Dr. Brandlhofer spoke about the chemical industries to be established. The full speech will appear in the next issue.
MrS ; A1 Jf rta Dohert y: Employment of the handicapped. This speech was received with a standing ovation, due to contents and the way of delivery
Mr. Dominguez of Puerto Rico spoke extempera > eously and at some length about the Cicyp meeting.
he speaker at the formal closing was Hon. Joseph b. Farland, Ambassador of the United States in Panama, who came as a personal representative of President Kennedy. It was amazing that the Ambassador, who encountered many difficulties and delays coming to Aruba, notwithstanding the late hour, was still capable to deliver a forceful speech. In this way, the conventen started and ended in a magnificent man
In between we had resolutions of all kinds, which will be discussed in the coming issues. For the moment we would like to make an exception for the resolutions of Aruba and Curacao, which here carried unanimously. The exception is made because these resolutions are of direct importance to our islands, the other resolutions being of much wider scope and deserving deeper analysis. The resolutions follow at the end of this article.
As far as wining and dining is concerned, the hotels fied with each other, their free competition resulting m a paradise for epicureans. If we still needed proof that only free competition could lead to unsurpassed heights, then we had it.
To name but a few: the typical bar-b-q at the Aruba Caribbean Hotei, host Lago Oil & Transport Co. W. This word is also written barbeque and could
barh 1 u deriVed fr0m the Word ’’barbacoa” (or barbacua), which is a mexican word meaning to quote the Real Academia Española: ’’conjunto de palos de madera verde puestos sobre un hueco, a manera de parrilla, que usan los indios para asar carne” that is, a grill of green sticks above a hole in the ground used by the indians to roast meat. From the forgoing it appears that considerable attention was paid to this special bar-b-q, also in a spiritual sense, (there are more explanations, seven in total the seventh being: Carne asada de este modo, to which explanation the guests suscribed). Other events to be singled out, because in addition to excellent food they had something special, were the lunch at Basi Ruti Hotel, where we had an unexpected, frank and forthright speech by the Venezuelan Consul, and the Chinese buffet and local talent show at Strand Hotel. That show was a big surprise and not only to the delegates. They are all amateurs, that so-called local talent, but they acted like professionals under the leadership of the master of- ceremony, Mr. Hubert Booy. Very well done, we were all extremely proud of them.
Came the last day and the election of officers to
8
the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas by the general membership meeting. This meeting of members from powerful, big countries showed their appreciation for the Netnerlands Antilles by electing as a Director Mr. A. J. Jesurun of the Curacao Trade
and Industry Association and as its President.
Mr. Clinton H. Whitfield of Aruba, who succeeds the very capable Mr. G. James Hughes.
We congratulate both gentlemen on this distinction, that puts a heavy burden on their shoulders, but which is at the same time a distinction for the Netherlands Antilles.
According to a resolution of the meeting, this new Board will have as its task for the coming year: a) to unite all countries of the Americas in this organization b) to build a new, five-storied building for the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas in Miami, where the next meeting will be held.
The following gentlemen are board-members: Clin ton H. Whitfield, Aruba, Frank Gatteri, Miami, Manuel J. Castillo, Colon, Roberto Gomez Hinestrosa, Bogota, Douglas Gillet, Miami, Senator Claude Pepper, Miami, A. J. Jesurun, Curacao, Francisco Lopez Dominguez, Puerto Rico, Augustin Cedeño, Panamá, James H. Moulder, Miami.
In this illustrious company, the Netherlands Antilles are very well represented, as a matter of fact even far better than the above list shows. Not only that all our guests have become our friends, it would be extremely difficult not to befriend them, but we had also the strong support of Mr. Cedeño of Colón and of Senator Claude Pepper of Miami.
A great, internal achievement of this convention was that the organizations of trade and industry of Curasao and Aruba decided to forget their differences and to cooperate more closely in the future.
It was a great honor for Aruba to be host to the 11th convention, it was also a great pleasure.
Aruba Trade and Industry Association Statement
Statement read by Mr. Arturo M. Arends, President of Aruba Trade & Industry Association.
Mr. Chairman:
Delegates:
In my capacity of Member delegation of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas established in Aruba, which island has the great honour to have amoungst its midst the Chamber of Commerce of the America’s Annual Meeting, I wish to avail myself to extend a most sincere welcome and a cordial greeting to all Board of Directors and all Delegates of this great organization of Commerce of the Americas.
At the same time I am introducing to you a resolution which to my regret has to be brought to the attention of the meeting.
Many of you with us will have noticed the absence of an American Consul in our midst, this is caused by the fact that for reason of economy the American Consulate in Aruba has been closed as of February 28th, 1961.
Mr. Chairman, Delegates from the important addresses held by the Hon. Dr. Obregon, who so inspired the theme of this ELEVENTH ANNUAL MEETING: ’’Progress with Liberty” and his Hon. Deputy Oscar Henriquez who demonstrated so elocuently the importance of developments of new industries and tourism in conjunction with investments participation from American capital and Mr. Odis S. Mingus who heads an affiliate of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey in Aruba and who also clearly implied the contributions of American capital and know how to the economy of Aruba, it will be clear to all of you that the mentioned closure of the American Consulate in Aruba, is entirely contrary to the past and present
great cooperation between the US of America and the Netherlands Antilles.
Moreover as we will also demonstrate in the preambule of our resolution, this closure will be detrimental to the progress and the economic development of Aruba.
We have the honour to count amongst the Delegates the good Friends and Hon. Delegates from Panama, Colon and Barn, who not so long ago so successfully met a similar action with the grand cooperation of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas.
Mr. Chairman, Delegates I have no more to add, we call on all of you to support Aruba in its plight to secure an immediate reopening of the American Consulate in Aruba.
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Aruba Trade and Industry Association Resolution
Whereas the United States Department of State has ordered its Consulate at Oranjestad, Aruba, closed as of February 28, 1961; and Whereas this mentioned Consulate of the United States had been established on the island of Aruba for over twenty years; and
Whereas said closure of the Consulate has resulted in loss of time for travellers in general, who wish to make a trip to the United States being it on business or vacation or a combination of both, which travellers are not citizens or residents of the United States, and are not in possession of a visa; and
Whereas The Consulate General closest to the island of Aruba is located at Willemstad, Curacao; and Whereas the only practical way possible to visit said Consulate General in person, which on most occasions is a requirement, is by air;and Whereas extra expenses involved may be calculated at a minimum of US $40.— per person; and
Whereas the island of Aruba is the site of one of the largest oil refineries in the world, viz. the Lago Oil and Transport Co., Ltd., an affiliate of Standard Oil Company of New Jersey; and Whereas the island of Aruba has become the home of approximately 1400 U.S. citizens as of March 31, 1960, out of a total population in Aruba of close to 55,000; and
Whereas the trade relations between the island of Aruba and the United States, both in import and export, run into hundreds of millions of dollars a year, as evidenced by published statistics of the Netherlands Antilles Government; and
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Whereas the United States Government and the Government of the Netherlands Antilles both have made statements, to promote trade and/or tourism between the United States and the Netherlands Antilles; aud
Whereas American citizens prefer to spend vacations in those places where an American Consulate is established and this presently not being the case in Aruba, tourism from the United States to Aruba might be hampered seriously; and Whereas a similar closure has taken place with the American Consulate at Colon, República de Panama and same Consulate has been reopened since; and Whereas the U.S. Department of State has given as reasons for said closure of the American Consulate in Aruba, reason of economy and the opening of many new Consulates in newly independent countries; and
Whereas on many occasions the Government of the United States has given assurances of friendship and good will toward the people of Latin America and the Caribbean area; and
Whereas said friendship and good will are a necessity for the people of Latin America and the Caribbean area; and
Whereas one of the principal objectives of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas is to defend and to provide impetus to the system of free enterprise, which objectives will be strongly furthered by the reopening of the American Consulate in Aruba; THEREFORE BE IT
RESOLVED that it is the sense of this XI Annual Meeting of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas, convened in Aruba, on this day, that the American Consulate at Oranjestad, Aruba should be reopened;
ReSOLVED that a Committee be appointed by the Chair to present this Resolution to the proper authorities in Washington, D.C., United States of America;
RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce of the Americas take any and all steps it deems necessary and/or useful to bring about the reopening of the American Consulate in Aruba at the earliest possible date.
Aruba Trade and Industry Association Aruba Chamber of Commerce and Industry Morris Serphos Jr.,
Delegate
Aruba Trade and Industry Association
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Monetary notes
Prof. Dr. P. Lieftinck has accepted the invitation of the government to visit the Netherlands Antilles.
On a national scale Prof. Lieftinck’s name is a by-word, which stands for the highest authority in monetary matters, or, more precisely, in the way money is managed in a modern state.
The Netherlands are deeply indebted to Prof. Lieftinck for his remarkable performance directly after the war as a Minister of Finance and also for the fact that he laid the foundation for future growth. He did more than any one else to save the Dutch economy from collapse and he performed this task under adverse circumstances.
Regardless of his manifest, undoubted capacities the Dutch relieved Prof. Lieftinck of his responsibility as soon as his main task was completed more or less. Not only that they feared his imagination in the field of taxation (we still do), but it also seems to be a characteristic of the Dutch never to condone an extraordinary strong and capable man in the government for too long a period. The stronger the man, the shorter the period (sometimes we regret, like now).
Prof. Lieftinck comes to the Antilles, together with Prof. Dr. C. Goedhart, and Drs. J. H. C. de Looper to advise the government about the measures to be taken with a view to further development and growth.
We hope to have the pleasure to interview this illustrious company in due course and will report then.
Meanwhile there is no lack of suitable subjects.
Internationally, many upheavals have taken place. We wrote already about the revaluation. That was an eruption, but underneath all is not too well, the soil is liquid and shifting, so they say. The reasoning of those, who hold this opinion goes somewhat as follows:
The banking system of a country sees to it that the money supply of that country stays more or less in a fixed ratio to the production. In other words, if the production increases,then the money supply should also increase, in order to ascertain that the internal value of money remains the same, which is very important, as money is a medium of exchange and a standard of value. The banks are capable to perform aforementioned feat, because they are able to create money (This subject was exhausted in a former Echo). The capacity to create money is to be regarded as a monetary reserve.
In international relations, however, there is no such thing as a flexible monetary reserve that can rise with the tide through the workings of an international bank. Increased trade and production meet a relatively unflexible supply of money with the result that a liquidity shortage emerges.
Dollars and pound sterling are the two currencies
that are held, next to gold, as an international monetary reserve. In order to preserve the liquidity, America a.id Great Britain are obliged to suffer that dollars and pounds are distributed into the world, which not only means a balance of payments deficit, but also constitutes a threat against these countries in case of a run. When they should try to adopt measures to curb this danger, they also curb international trade and expansion, which is among others to the detriment of countries that produce raw materials.
Germany is one of the countries that has a large slice of international trade and production, but as the mark is not used as a key currency, in the manner as the dollar and the pound is used, the trading surplus only results in more reserves for Germany and is not lent back, consequently does not relieve the liquidity shortage. So far the advocates of liquidity shortage.
The situation sketched above is not new. The pinches are new, or rather, becoming worse. How to modify this situation, we do not know. There are several plans, one of which is to borrow the currency from countries with a favorable balance of payments and to lend it out to countries with a deficit. The International Monetary Fund is to act as intermediary.
We remember that at the end of the war there were two plans, a Keynes’ plan and a White’s plan. The Keynes’ plan provided in a world currency. If that plan had been adopted, to-day’s shackles might not exist.
Following our description of to-day’s problems and opinions, the picture becomes even less clear, as there are bankers who maintain that there is no absolute liquidity shortage. One of them is Dr. Holtrop, President of the ’’Nederlandsche Bank”, (see Elsevier of May 20, 1961), who proves that the total international monetary reserve and the total trade shows not a decrease, but even an increase in liquidity. In other words, there is enough money to serve as a medium, without causing restraints and pinches in places.
In Elsevier’s article we miss a reference to the resources of the International Monetary Fund itself, $ 15 billion dollars, but probably Dr. Holtrop did not forget to mention this in his original report.
Notwithstanding, Elsevier is not convinced by Dr. Holtrop. Its argumentation is that the report does not mention the situation in the countries, that now serve as worldbankers, that is in America and Britain. It also lists some internal dangers and it refers to a report of the Chase Manhattan Bank. In short, said countries are not free in the conduct of their monetary policy.
We believe that Elsevier forgot one argument: What part of the total supply is held in unwanted or unused money reserve? That part does namely noth
11
mg to relieve the supposed liquidity shortage.
Whoever may be right a fact is that we in the Antilles have felt repercussions arising from che deficit in the balance of payments in the States. Everything is rather gloom and the tourists are back to US$ 100. free of import duty. If this in only because of an alleged liquidity shortage, then it is double heard to bear.
Mind you, Dr. Holtrop is not the only one who says that there is no shortage; he is in excellent company and he might be quite right. As far as our humble opinion is concerned, we also believe that the problem of world liquidity is exaggerated and that it pops up rather suddenly after the appointment of Mr. Kennedy to President of the U.S.A.
Consequently ,it seems to us that it is too strongly connected with the problem of growth, a purely internal affair.
As we see it, America and Britain, providing the key currencies of the world, are indeed not as free in adopting internal measures to ensure growth as other countries are.
It is quite possible that they would not be confronted with such a problem if they had adopted the Keynes’ plan for a world currency. Since they did not, it is their problem to co-ordinate the one and the other, not ours and not at our cost. To ask now of other countries that they voluntarily sacrifice their prospects of growth in favor of America and Britain seems to be a big order, especially after America enjoyed all the advantages of its position in the past and is now warry to accept possible slight disadvantages. Germany and the Netherlands did sacrifice voluntarily prospects of growth through revaluation, but 5% is considered as not being enough. In our opinion it is exactly 5% too much.
Switching from world problems to the Netherlands Antilles, we can safely assume that we are to a high degree subject to international trends, on which we are powerless, and that besides we have problems of our own, arising from the fact that the population is growing, that we are dependent for our basic materials from foreign countries and that the standard of living is decreasing, which is also due to the high cost of our administration.
Briefly, our problem is to ensure growth. Usually that is obtained by running a budget deficit and by attracting the investment of foreign capital, when and if available resources are exhausted.
We are against budget deficit, because, for the moment, our situation is not that bad. And, if we use that weapon now, we do not have it if, in some future time, the situation becomes really serious.
Moreover, public works, which a budget deficit imply, are not very necessary, especially not in Aruba, because there is work from private enterprise forthcoming. Again, one should be careful to use one’s powder at the right moment.
Therefore, for the moment, we favor the following instead:
12
a. abolishment of exchange control, which control is. after all, only nominal, constitutes only an unnecessary tax and is nothing but a liability. Li our opinion this is one of the weapons to be conserved for future use. At the moment it is only a hindrance.
b. decrease or abolishment of import duties in order to lower the prices. That gives a rise to the standard of living and makes our markets still more attractive to tourists, which is income.
c. lowering the cost of government administration, in the first place by abolishing and avoiding duplication (a touchy point — island autonomy)
d. lowering taxes, even although our taxes are already unusual low in comparison to other countries. By lowering them still more, we create internally productive capital for investment and we attract foreign capital.
An interesting alternative would be not to lower taxes, but, since there is a budget surplus in our reasoning, unproductive and unnecessary government administration being eliminated, to use this surplus partly for still more social measures, partly as a fund for structural investment — now or later.
These measures will have the tendency to lower prices and to enhance the standard of living. They will attract foreign capital. In this connection it should not be forgotten that we have a recession in our growth, relatively and absolutely.
Combined with the above, we must now install a real Central Bank that could influence bankrates, again belonging to a set of weapons for future use incomplete but practical.
We, in the Netherlands Antilles, insist on private property and private enterprise with free competition and freedom of contract, because we see these features as part of a natural law ,as the only road for mankind to achieve personal freedom and prosperity. This does not imply that we are adverse of all government measures, dedicated to ensure freedom for all and not only for the strong. We are also quite able to envisage in our liberal philosophy government measures as a complement to avoid recession of growth, to avoid unemployment and at the same time to avoid inflation. As a mater of fact we know that it is possible to attain these aims, provided that we live in a big enough economy, Kingdom and/or E.E.G., and we demand such measures as belonging to the governmental office and duty. In this light, the Echo is highly pleased that the government of the Netherlands Antilles wants the advice of such notably capable men as Prof. Dr. Lieftinck and his companions, Prof. Dr. Goedhart and Drs. de Looper. It is a pity that we were unable to interview them, but we are looking forward to their findings.
We wish to point out, however, that it is also the duty of the existing organizations of trade and industry to deal actively with the existing problems of our community and to stop awaiting passively the ways and means the government embarks upon.
The incident of the seven Venezuelan fugitives
Regarding the incident of the seven Venezuelan fugitives, the Government Information Service (RVD) on June 9, published the following press release (No. Ill):
’’Yesterday evening about 7.00 p.m. a Venezuelan militairy aircraft requested the Traffic Tower (at Curasao Airport, Ed.) for permission to make an emergency landing, as it had some wounded aboard allegedly. An ambulance also was requested. Without awaiting a reply the aircraft landed shortly after the request was made, at Dr. Albert Plesman Airport.
Several persons ran from the aircraft to the stationbuilding shouting for asylum. Immediately thereupon shots were fired from within the aircraft, which fire these persons answered immediately. Forthwith a state of alarm was called, whereupon a marine patrol present at the airfield appeared and reestablished order. Police authorities then secured all the persons aboard the aircraft, which were transported, with the exception of the second pilot, who was wounded during the fight and who was carried to the Hospital by ambulance.
A preliminary investigation turned up, that the aircraft was on its way from Puerto Cabello (Venezuela) to Maiquetia (Venezuela), with seven prisoners (all former military). On its way the prisoners overpowered the Commander of the transport, Captain Tallardat. An exchange of fireweapons followed, during which the second pilot was seriously wounded and Captain Tallardad lightly wounded. The first pilot was then forced to set course for Curacao.
When the aircraft landed at Dr. Albert Plesman Airport and the seven prisoners ran away, the Commander of the Guards, Captain Tallardat, succeeded in securing a machinegun and ordered the fugitives to enter the aircraft. When he was not obeyed, he opened fire on the fugitives, who answered the fire. During this second exchange of fire the first pilot was wounded, although he is not in serious condition.”
The next day a Venezuelan delegation, consisting of the Minister of the Interior, Dr. L. A. Dubuc, and the Chief of Military Intelligence, arrived for discussions with the Netherlands Antillian Acting Prime Minister, His Excellency Mr. C. D. Kroon. These discussions took place in a friendly atmosphere. The result of these talks was the release of the aircraft, which immediately departed for Venezuela, and most of the crew and guards. The Commander of the Guards, Capt. Tallardat and the fugitives stayed behind for further interrogation and investigation, pending possible prosecution by the Judicial authorities.
On June 10, The Kingdom Ambassador in Caracas, Dr. H. N. Boon received his instructions from the Hague, were the Neth. Antillian Prime Minister Mr. E. Jonckheer, Finance Minister J. E. Yrausquin and Justice Minister R. J. Isa, were in Round Table Conference together, to discuss the status of the Netherlands Antilles and Surinam within the Kingdom, with the Gov ernment of Surinam and the Netherlands, After consultation regarding this matter, in which the Netherlands Antilles had ample opportunity to present its views on the matter, the following protest was lodged in Caracas, according to a spokesman from the Foreign Ministry at The Hague:
’’The Ambassador in Caracas, Dr. H. N. Boon has been instructed to protest with the Venezuelan Government against the armed action on Antillian territory by a Venezuelan Officer and against the insufficient measures, which apparently are taken, to prevent, that during transportation of Venezuelan prisoners An tillian Territory has been involved. The Kingdom of the Netherlands does not care to be involved in Caribbean conflicts and hopes, that surrounding countries in that area, will abstain themselves from non permissible actions on Netherlands (Kingdom) Territory.”
The implication in the official protest is very clear, the Netherlands Antilles are presently located in an area, where to the North Cuba and the Dominican Republic are in turmoil, and where to the South Venezuela has been suffering from internal and external problems. Without taking any active part in the mentioned power struggles, the Netherlands Antilles, wishing to maintain its traditional friendly relations, particularly with its neighbour Venezuela, are once again involved.
The Daily Journal of Caracas, Venezuela, in its editorial of June 11, summed up this matter very convincingly as follows:
’’The case of the seven Venezuelan fugitives in Curasao caused another underserved complication in the relations between Holland and Venezuela.
Holland always seems to get it in the neck, as the saying goes. No year seems to pass without some kind of incident between it and Venezuela. If it isn’t strange fliers dropping anti-Venezuela leaflets over Aruba, it’a accusations of smuggling or contraband; and now comes the latest fly-in-the-ointment in the shape of seven Venezuelan military prisoners landing on the airport of Curacao.
Of course, the prisoners should have been better guarded; then, no international incident would have occurred. (We do not understand, for example, why the men were not handcuffed while traveling on the plane. Is this perhaps against the rules?) In any case, the prisoners were able to gain control of their guards and of the plane, and to force a landing in Curacao. And in Curacao — a foreign airport receiving an unauthorized foreign militairy plane — another gunfight was started.
So the complications are enormous. Of course, the prisoners should be returned, and we are sure Holland wants no part of them. But the law is complicated and it is creaky. It is even possible that not only Dutch law but international law may be invoked in this case. One can be sure that the prisoners will do everything possible to delay their return to Venezuela.
13
So Holland is caught in an unpleasant situation again, clearly not at all of its making. It will do everything possible to help the Venezuelan government, of course. But it also has to observe the law.
It is truly unfortunate that a friendly country like Holland should always be placed in such jams. It doesn t deserve such bad breaks.”
Although the Netherlands Antilles authorities and the population sympathise wholeheartedly with the dilemma of the Democratic Constitutional Government of Venezuela, steps had to be taken to exact proper respect for Netherlands Antillian territorial and judicional rights.
In order to maintain friendly relations with Venezuela and to prevent that this territory would be used for activities against the Constitutional Government of Venezuela, some months ago a special law has been enacted on proposal of the Neth. Ant. Minister of Justice, to prevent the use of the Netherlands Antilles as a basis for revolutionary attempts and setting high jail sentences for offenses against this law.
The mentioned protest also follows action by the Court of the Netherlands Antilles, which sentenced
Eerste Wereldoorlog gaf
Hoe eenzaam en geïsoleerd Aruba vroeger was blijkt uit het Dagboek, dat door gezaghebber Hendrik J. Beaujon is bijgehouden. Beaujon heeft ons eiland van 1911 tot 1921 bestuurd, tien jaren dus. Krachtens de toen bestaande voorschriften hield hij een zogenaamd Journaal of dagboek, waarin hij van dag tot dag optekende wat er voor belangrijks was voorgevallen. Over het algemeen waren dit geen erg grote zaken; Aruba was toen nog een rustig en rustiek landje. Maar van 1914 tot 1919 komt in Beaujons Dagboek niet één keer het woord oorlog voor. Er wordt zelfs op het woeden van de eerste wereldoorlog geen toespeling gemaakt. Het lijkt alsof Aruba op een andere planeet lag en van de oorlog niet had gehoord.
Ouderen zullen zich herinneren, dat er in de eerste wereldoorlog toch wel honger geleden is. Dat is zo, maar was niet het gevolg van de oorlog, doch van een langdurige droogteperiode, die in september 1914 is begonnen. Eerst op het eind van de oorlog, toen de Vp*enigde Staten in de oorlog gingen, is de situatie hier erger geworden als gevolg van de oorlog, omdat de meelexport uit Amerika ophield. Maar lang voor Amerika in de oorlog ging, heerste hier hongersnood als gevolg van de droogte. Op het gezaghebberskantoor (d.i. de in 1948 afgebroken zg. marinierskazerne) werd het uit Curacao gezonden meel uitgedeeld. De mensen brachten het naar de vrouwelijke bakkers, die wij hier destijds hadden, doch ouderen verhalen dat men zelfs in betere kringen wel eens met een lege maag naar bed moest.
Natuurlijk volgde men het oorlogsgebeuren hier toch wel op de voet. De Beurs- en Nieuwsberichten bestond nog niet; de Amigoe di Curacao was een weekblad. Het
four young men of Dominican origin, to four weeks unconditionally in jail, for throwing rocks at the residence of the Counsul of the Dominican Republic at Aruba, and as such demonstrating that the Netherlands Antilles do not wish to become involved with one political dispute nor another. The rockthrowing took place on the night following the announcement of the murder of General Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, for 31 years dictator of the Dominican Republic.
This publication since its conception has favored friendly relations with the neighbour countries, particularly Venezuela and continues to favor this policy. We sincerely hope and trust that within a short time the hot tempers will simmer down and normal relations will continue. In our humble opinion the best solution would be to release Captain Tallardat forthwith and to expelí the seven fugitives from the Netherlands Antilles, to prevent them from disturbing the peace. Upon their expulsion these fugitives could then choose to which country they wish to travel. In this matter, however, time is essence of the matter and whichever action will be taken, it will have to be taken as soon as possible.
Aruba’s economie een klap
enige dagblad dat op Curacao bestond, was de nu verdwenen Boletín Comercial, maar omdat de enige verbinding bestond in een zeilschip dat eens per week de tocht van Curasao naar Aruba maakte, was het nieuws oud voor het hier kwam. Nu was er in die tijd wel de DT. Zo noemde men in de begintijd de draadloze telegrafie, zoals men nu de televisie TV noemt. Chef van de DT was Sjon Twaai Beaujon, een populaire man. Officieel ging het DT-kantoor om 4 uur dicht, maar omdat de meeste mensen dan hun siesta hielden of nog aan het werk waren, ging Sjon Twaai altijd ’s avonds nog even naar zijn DT-station om het laatste nieuws op te vangen. Een kring van kooplieden verzamelde zich dan om hem heen en zo bleef men hier op de hoogte. Tenzij de accu leeg was, want dan was er enige tijd geen verbinding. De accu moest met het eerstvolgend zeilschip naar Curasao worden gezonden om te worden geladen. Het kon wel eens even duren voor het ding
terug was. In mei 1915, midden in de oorlog, was
Aruba zo enige tijd geheel van alles verstoken.
Toen de Verenigde Staten de oorlog verklaard hadden en de uitvoer uit dat land werd gestaakt, heeft men meel-rantsoenen in moeten voeren. Maar maïs kon Aruba toen in ruime mate uit Venezuela betrekken. Schapen en geiten kwamen uit Colombia enz. Wel liepen de prijzen van buitenlandse artikelen geweldig op. Maar binnenlandse artikelen bleven een prijs houden, die ons nu nog doet watertanden: 3 ct. voor een ei, 60 a 70 ct. voor een kip. Melk en bonen waren moeilijk te krijgen.
De fosfaat- en goudbedrijven werden stil gelegd, omdat er geen uitvoermogelijkheid bestond. Dit had ten gevolge, dat de oorlog een grote werkloosheid veroor
zaakte. Vele Arubanen trokken naar elders om op de suikerplantages te werken, want juist als gevolg van de oorlog was er een overvloed van werkgelegenheid op de suikerrietvelden van Santo Domingo, Cuba e.a. landen.
Dr. G. R. Hopkins, toen de gouvernementsarts op ons eiland, schreef in 1915 over de hongersnood die hier heerste en de ziekten, die deze weggetrokken arbeiders bij hun terugkomst uit Venezuela, Colombia en andere landen medebrachten, zoals malaria en dysenerie. In October 1917 kwamen gevallen van scheurbuik op ons eiland voor en in 1918 heerste hier in ernstige mate de Spaanse griep.
Maar zulke arbeiders brachten niet altijd ziekten mede. De Arubanen stonden toen al bekend als spaarders. Waar de ingezetenen van andere eilanden het elders verdiende geld vaak meteen verteerden, potten de Arubanen het op. In 1919 keren 110 Arubanen uit Cuba terug, met samen niet minder dan 11 mille op zak, voor die tijd een enorm bedrag.
Door de drukke scheepvaart bloeide de schoenerbouw-industrie van Aruba weer op. Oudtijds stonden de op Aruba gebouwde zeilschepen bekend om hun soliditeit en ook waren het snelle zeilers. Waar nu het gezaghebberskantoor staat, was toen de aflopende kust. Dat was de plek van de schoenerbouw. De herinnering aan deze laatste producten van echt-Arubaanse nijverheid zijn nog levendig. De Beatriz van Karei Croes, de Chapara van Gilberto Arends, de En Gracia van Rudolf Arends en de Gracia Maria van Sintiago Tomp werden toen gebouwd.
In 1915 hervatte men op Aruba de verzending van gekoelde vis naar Curagao, maar omdat het koelwerktuig op Curagao als gevolg van de oorlog niet tijdig hersteld kon worden toen het eens defect geraakte, was deze bezigheid niet zulk een succes. Zout werd nog wel
gewonnen op ons eiland, maar niet uitgevoerd.
De uitvoer van aloë liep op en vormde op onze uitvoerbalans verreweg de grootste post. Jaarlijks werd wel voor 160 á 180 duizend gulden aan aloëhars uitgevoerd. Goud vormde ook een belangrijk artikel (r uim een ton per jaar), maar zoals wij al zeiden hield bij gebrek aan uitvoermogelijkheid de export van dit product van eigen bodem in de loop van de oorlog op. Feitelijk is het goud nadien nimmer meer als uitvoerproduct teruggekeerd.
Fosfaat, welke per jaar een 80 mille opbracht, kon men ook moeilijk meer kwijt. De vermaarde strohoeden, waar wij het in een vorig artikel over hadden, bleven goed gaan. Elk jaar was dat een bedrag van een 25 mille tot 75 mille. Een heel merkwaardig uitvoerproduct was mest (f 2350 per jaar in 1914, f 4716 in 1915); in de oorlog liep dit enorm op: 1918 ruim f 37 mille.
De totale uitvoer van Aruba in het jaar 1913, dus voor de oorlog, bedroeg f 433,000 (afgerond). Dit zakte tot f 350.000 in 1915 en f 208.000 in 1917. Dat deze angstig aandoende recessie zich deed gevoelen, laat zich verstaan.
Ook al bevat het Gezaghebbersjournaal dan geen woord over de oorlog, de gevolgen van de eerste wereldoorlog waren er wel en de handel gevoelde die. Doordat de Aruba Fosfaat Maatschappij ontbonden werd en al meteen in 1915 de uitvoer staakte en de Goudmaatschappij even later hetzelfde deed, betekende de eerste wereldoorlog een klap voor de economie van Aruba, want hoewel de aloë ongetwijfeld een belangrijke plaats innam en bleef innemen, vormden fosfaat en goud wel een zeer belangrijke post bij onze uitvoer. Een cijfer ten besluite moge dit illustreren: in 1923 bedroeg de totale uitvoer f 265.000.
(Nadruk verboden).
Johan Hartog.
A plea for shuttle flights in N.A.
.In conjunction with the Government Committee studying the possibilities of a local airline in the Netherlands Antilles, (established May 13, 1961, see May ’’Echo”) we would like to supply a suggestion to this Committee as well as the airlines servicing our islands.
According to an article in the Wall Street Journal of June 13, 1961, Eastern Airlines introduced on April 30, of this year shuttle flights from New York to Washington and Boston. Eastern Airlines guarantees transportation to shuttle passengers who show up before the departure time.
Passengers taking the air shuttle simply pluck a boarding pass from a machine as they enter the air terminal, place their baggage in a super market grocery cart and wheel it directly to the gate for boarding. At the gate their baggage is weighed and they are sold a fifty cent coupon for every ten pounds
beyound the forty pound bagage limi t, They pay for tickets on the plane and Eastern will be making arrangements to accept personal checks as well as air travel cards and cash.
Tickets cost about 27% below the regular 1st class fares. Another cost factor favoring the service is that the Constellation craft being utiized, has been about fully depreciated on Eastern’s books.
We would like to add as comment that this shuttle service does not eliminate travel agents, as open tickets purchased in advance are acceptable. If this service could be introduced between the Antilles islands we are certain that shuttle flights will increase the frequency of travelling amongst our islands of the Netherlands Antilles, it will benefit inter island tourism by an increase of general air traffic, while at the same time diminishing loss of time for travel arrangements.
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El incidente de los siete fugitivos Venezolanos
Sobre el incidente de los siece fugitivos venezolanos, el 9 de junio el Servicio de Información del Gobierno, publicó las siguientes noticias de prensa:
Ayer a las 19.15 hora local un avión de las Fuerzas Aéreas Venezolanas solicitó por radio permiso de la torre de control del aeropuerto de Curazao para un aterrizaje urgente, pretendiendo tener a bordo heridos. También dijeron que presisaban una ambulancia. Sin esperar una respuesta el avió., aterrizó directamente después de la petición en el aeropuerto Dr. Albert Plesman. Varias personas bajaron y corrieron del avión hacia el edificio del aeropuerto gritando que querían asilo. Al mismo tiempo se inició un tiroteo en el avión que fué respondido por estas personas. Directamente se dió el alarme general en toda la isla, inmediatamente un destacamento de infantería de marina llegó al aeropuerto y restableció la orden. Autoridades policiales detuvieron a todos los ocupantes del avión que fueron transportados con excepción del segundo piloto, que fué herido durante el tiroteo y que condujeron al hospital por ambulanccia. Una investigación provisional dió por resultado que el avión de la F. A. V. que conducía a Caracas un grupo de oficiales para ser sometidos a interrogatorios fué desviado de su ruta original Puerto Cabello — Caracas y obligado a aterrizar en el aeropuerto de Curazao. Encontrándose en la ruta los prisioneros domina
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ion al comandante del transporte el capitán Taylhardat. Hubo un tiroteo y resultó gravemente herido el segundo piloto y menos seriamente el Capicán Carlos Taylhardat. El piloto del avió., fue obligado a conducir el avión a la isla de Curazao. Cuando el avión descendió al aeropuerto Dr. Albert Plesman y los siete prisioneros huyeron, el comandante de custoria, Capitán C. A. Taylhardat, se apoderó de u.ia ametralladora y ordenó a los fugitivos abordar el avión. Cuando no obedecieron, inició fuego sobre los fugitivos que respondieron el fuego. Durante este segu ;do tiroteo hirieron al primer piloto”. (Fin de la información)
Un día después una comisión especial del Gobierno de Venezuela, presidida po reí Ministro de Relaciones Interiores Dr. Luis Augusto Dubuc, acompañado del Mayor N. Pinelau, segundo jefe del Servicio de Inteligencia Militar, llegó para entrevistarse con el Vicepresidente del Co.:sejo de las Antillas, el señor C. D. Kroon. Estas entrevistas se desarrollaron en una atmósfera de harmonía. El resultado de estas discusiones fué que Holanda devolvió el avión junto con la mayoría de los tripulantes y guardias. El Capitá . Carlos A. Taylhardat y los refugiados quedaron bajo custodia para someterles a interrogatorios e investigaciones pendiente a la posible prosecución de las Autoridades Judiciales.
El día 10 de junio el Embajador de los Países Bajos en Venezuela, señor Boon, recibió sus instruc-' ciones de la Haya do.:de el Primer Ministro de las Antillas Neerlandesas, señor E. Jonckheer, el Ministro de Hacienda, señor J. E. Irausquin, y el Ministro de Justicia, señor R. J. Isa, celebraban una R.T.C. conferencia. Después de deliberacio.:es en las cuales las Antillas Neerlandesas tuvieron amplias oportunidades para expresar sus puntos de vista en este asunto, la siguiente protesta se envió a Caracas, según el portavoz del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores en la Haya:
El Embajador de los Países Bajos en Venezuela, Dr. H. N. Boo.i, fué encargado de protestar ante el Gobierno Venezolano por el tiroteo desencandenado por un oficial venezolano sobre territorio antillano y por la manifiesta falta de medidas de precaución para evitar que durante el transporte de prisioneros venezolanos estos pudiesen implicar el territorio antillano. El Reino de los Nelrlandeses no desea verse complicado en los conflictos del Caribe y espera que los países limítrofes de esta región se abstengan de acciones intolerables sobre territorio del Reino Neerlandés”.
La inferencia en la protesta oficial es muy evidente: Las Antillas Neerlandesas están situadas en una área donde en el Norte Cuba y la República Dominicana están agitados, y donde en el Sur Venezuela está sufriendo de problemas internas y externas. Sin tomar acciones algunas en estos conflictos las Antillas
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Neerlandesas deseando mantener sus tradicionales relaciones armoniosas con Venezuela, se ven una vez más implicadas.
El Daily Journal de Caracas, Venezuela, en sus editorial de 11 de junio, resumió este asunto de una manera muy clara:
”E1 incidente de los siete fugitivos venezolanos en Curazao induce otra complicación no merecida en las relaciones entre Holanda y Venezuela. Holanda es siempre chasqueada, como se dice. No pasa año sin que alguna clase de incidente entre las Antillas Neerlandesas y Venezuela ocurra. Si no son pilotos extranjeros que dejan caer panfletos anti-venezolanos sobre Aruba (el Daily Journal se equivoca, debe ser Curazao. Ed.) son acusaciones de contrabandear y ahora es la última mosca en el ungüento en la forma de siete presos militares de Venezuela que aterrizaron en el aeropuerto de Curazao.
Claro, los venezolanos tuvieron que haber vigilado mejor a sus prisioneros, entonces no hubiera ocurrido un incidente internacional. Por ejemplo, no comprendemos porque estas personas no habían sido maniatados, mientras viajaban en el avión. ¿Quizá es esto contra las reglas ?
En todo caso, los prisioneros tuvieron la oportunidad de atacar a los miembros de la custodia y de secuestrar el avión y obligar el aterrizaje en Curazao. Y en Curazao — fíjense un aeropuerto en el exterior donde un avión militar extra ijero desautorizado descendió — empezaron con otro tiroteo.
Pues, las complicaciones son enormes. Claro, los prisioneros debiesen ser devueltos y estamos seguros de que Holanda no los desea, pero la ley es complicada y crujidera. Es posible que e_i este caso no sólo la Ley holandesa sino también la Ley internacional pueda ser invocada. Se puede estar seguro de que ios prisioneros harán todo lo posible para demorar su extradición a Venezuela.
Pues Hola ida de nuevo está atrapada en una situa RTC Comunique
Op 14 Juni werd de Ronde Tafel Conferentie in eerste instantie, omdat uit het gepubliceerde comunique deeLiemende delegaties van Nederland, Suriname en de Nederlandse Antillen. Wij schrijven hierbij in eerste instantie, omdat uithet gepubliceerde comunique duidelijk blijkt, dat voor het einde van dit jaar, de RTC Conferentie zal worden voortgezet, wanneer de werkcommissie die thans zal worden ingesteld, haar werkzaamheden zal hebben voltooid, welke werkzaamheden eruit zullen bestaan de consequenties te overzien, van de wijziging van de status van Suriname, mocht hiertoe door Suriname worden besloten. Uit de verklaring blijkt overduidelijk, dat Suriname zich niet heeft laten overtuigen van de voordelen en de wense
ción desagradable, claramente no por su culpa. Sin duda, hará todo lo posible para ayudar al gobierno venezolano, pero también tiene que atenerse a la Ley. Es realmente mala suerte que un país, amable como Holanda siempre tiene que ser puesto en situaciones tan bo.iitas. No merece tales violaciones”. (Hasta aquí el Daily Journal).
Aunque las autoridades y los habitantes de las Antillas Neerlandesas simpatizan completamente con el dilema del gobierno democrático constitucional de Venezuela, tienen que tomar medidas para que respeten debidamente los derechos territoriales y judiciales de las Antillas Neelandesas.
A fin de que nos sea posible armonizar con Venezuela e impedir que usen este territorio para actividades contra el gobierno co-istitucional de Venezuela, hace algunos meses que por el Ministro de Justicia de las Antillas Neerlandesas se propuso y se decretó una Ley especial para prevenir que usen las Antillas Neerlandesas como base para tentativas revolucionarias. Ofensas contra esta Ley son delitos e invocan penas de prisión altas.
El Tribunal de las Antillas Neerlandesas ya sentenció a cuatro jóvenes de origen dominicano a cuatro semanas de prisión absoluta por haber tirado piedras a la residencia del Consul de la República Dominicana en Aruba, demonstrando pues que las Antillas Neerlandesas no desean ser enzarzadas en una discusión política. El apedreo tuvo lugar en la noche después de la noticia del asesinato del General Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, dictador de la República Dominicana durante 31 años.
Desde el principio este mensual contribuyó relaciones amistosas a las regiones limítrofes sobre todo con Venezuela y sigue apoyando este curso de acción. Esperamos y abrigamos la confianza de que los temperamentos exaltados se entibien y que las relaciones normales continúen.
en EEG Associatie
lijkheid in deze status in dit stadium geen wijzigingen aan te brengen. Waar echter, ten overvloede, wederom werd gesteld, dat het Statuut van het Koninkrijk gebaseerd is op vrijwilligheid, kan Suriname naar alle waarschijnlijkneid, haar plannen doorzetten. Volgens de gepubliceerde verklaring en overeenkomstig door dit blad reeds voorspelde verwachtingen (April nummer, pagina 9), komen de door Suriname geëiste wijzigingen neer op een onafhankelijk buitenlands beleid, waar nodig en voorzover nodig, vestiging van buitenlandse ambassades, lidmaatschappen van de Verenigde Naties en Organisatie van Amerikaanse Staten, etc. Overeengekomen schijnt te zijn, dat in geval van buitenlandse overeenkomsten, te sluiten door Surina
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me of de Nederlandse Antillen met een andere mogendheid, waarvan de bepalingen slechts op Suriname of de Nederlandse Antillen van toepassing zal zijn, dergelijke overeenkomsten kunnen worden gesloten, zonder goedkeuring door de Koninkrijksregering. Slechts dienen zij te worden bekrachtigd door H. M. de Koningin als staatshoofd. In hoeverre de Gouverneurs van Suriname en de Nederlandse Antillen macht tot derzelver bekrachtiging zullen bezitten, als Vertegenwoordigers des Konings ,is thans nog niet duidelijk. Wel is komen vast te staan, zulks niet geheel tegenstrijdig aan onze verwachting in ons artikel van April, dat het Departement van Buitenlandse Zaken van het Koninkrijk, afdelingen zal stichten te Willemstad en Paramaribo, naar het zich laat aanzien, teneinde de Regering van de Nederlandse Antillen en van Suriname van advies te dienen op het gebied van het buitenlands beleid.
Wat de Werkcommissie na het beëindigen van haar taak zal concluderen en rapporteren, valt niet te voorspellen, anderzijds verwachten wij echter niet, dat de Ínhoud daarvan aan de te nemen besluiten zal afdoen. Ongeacht de conclusie en het rapport valt te verwachten, dat Suriname, die deze consequenties eveneens redelijkerwijs moet hebben voorzien, haar eisen zal handhaven, en dat de Ronde Tafel Conferentie, wanneer zij wederom bijeenkomt, hieraan zal moeten voldoen, nolens volens. De benoeming van de Werkcommissie dient naar onze bescheiden mening, in feite alleen, teneinde Suriname voornamelijk tijd te verschaffen, haar mening alsnog te wijzigen, na rijp beraad, zo haar zulks wenselijk voorkomt. Aan de andere Rijksdelen wordt echter eveneens de mogelijkheid geboden, ruggespraak te houden met de Volksvertegenwoordigingen.
Een belangrijk gevolg van de RTC is wel geweest, dat Mr. Luns, de Minister van Buitenlandse Zaken (van het Koninkrijk) een aanzienlijk sterker beleid
Letters to
Dear Sir,
I refer to your May issue in which you publish that our Government by Ministerial decree of May 13, 1961, has formed a Commission, which duty it will be to study the possibility to establish a Netherlands Antillian Airline and which Commission is also Li charge of preliminary work. I agree with your observations, that although the quality of the mentioned Commission is high, it is a pity, that once again, a representative from the island of Aruba, such as the Airport Harbor Master Mr. Heemskerk, has not been included in the Commission. It is impossible for any possible Netherlands Antillian Airline to function and prosper without Aruba. Although I recognize that one of the members Mr. C. O. Yrausquin, presently Head
is gaan voeren bij de behartiging van de economische en politieke buitenlandse belangen van de Nederlandse Antillen en Suriname. Dergelijke duidelijke taal als welke hij na de bijeenkomst van de Ministerraad van de Europese Economische Gemeenschap, heeft aangewend, en welke voornamelijk gericht was aan het adres van de Franse Regering, zijn wij stellig niet gewend geweest. Tegelijkertijd werd ook de Associatie van Suriname aanhangig gemaakt. Suriname, dat tot op dit moment nimmer een grote interesse toonde voor associatie bij de EEG, is zich blijkbaar thans van de voordelen hiervan welbewust. Mr. Luns schijnt de landen van de EEG duidelijk te hebben willen maken, dat Nederland met een verder uitstel van associatie van de Nederlandse Antillen bij de EEG geen genoegen zal nemen en heeft niet geschroomd in diplomatieke taal dreigementen te uiten, indien niet op korce termijn hieraan wordt voldaan. De delegatie van de Nederlandse Antillen bij de RTC kan in zoverre in ieder geval met een zeker gevoel van genoegdoening huiswaarts keren. Ook de nota aan het adres van de Venezolaanse Regeriug m.b.t. het vliegtuigincident in Curacao, liet aan duidelijkheid niets te wensen over. De Nederlandse Regering is zich thans bewust geworden van de gevolgen van haar houding in het verleden bij de behartiging van aangelegenheden betreffende de Nederlandse Antillen en Suriname.
Deze regels zijn in feite een eerste reactie op het slotcomumque van 14 Juni en dienen dan ook niet te worden beschouwd als een gedegen studie van deze materie. Die kan pas dan getrokken en geschreven worden, wanneer de Antiliaanse Regeringsdelegatie aan de Staten an de Nederlandse Antillen verslag uitbrengt en hieraan mogelijk nog een perconferentie verbindt. Wij stellen ons dan ook voor op deze aangelegenheid in de nabije toekomst terug te komen.
M. S.
the Editor
of the Aeronautics Service of the Netherlands Antilles, is a native Arubian, in this connection he has been appointed as an official Netherlands Antillian Government representative and not as au Arubian official.
On the matter self I wish to observe the following. I think that the intention of our Government is very interesting and laudable. The only fear that I have is, that if such Antillian Airline were established by our Government (where otherwise could the necessary risk capital presently be found?), the expenses it would incur because of its Governmental status, would necessarily be much too high. I therefore support a new setup in internal Antillian Airlines, but in conjunction with a established airline such as K.L.M.,
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with its many years of experience in the Netherlands Antilles, or Trans Caribbean Airlines, with a good record and proven low rates. Such new Company would have to receive guarantees of monopoly for routes strictly within the Netherlands Antilles, and should be managed, operated and serviced by the participating existing airline. As a businessman I admit that in my humble opinion, the best way for
business enterprises to prosper is, if managed and operated by businessmen, even when Government participates in its capital requirements, by necessity or out of conviction.
Thanking you for this opportunity, I remain, Yours sincerely,
A businessman of Aruba (name witheld upon request)
Trans Caribbean Airways and jetflights
Recent information published in newspapers in the U.S. have confirmed that in October of this year Trans Caribbean Airways, the airline that brought Aruba — New York air passage within the means of very modest budgest, since Februar of 1960, ($72,15 one way economy Aruba New York) will inaugurate jet flights between San Juan (Puerto Rico) and New York City. This information was released through official registration of the airline with the F.A.A. to this effect.
This news item of course is not only very interesting for our community, but it also opens perspectives for other reasons. To state that Trans Caribbean only serves Aruba on its northbound flights would be fiction. Interested persons that watch arrivals any day that Trans Caribbean arrives and leaves from Aruba, (presently Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays) can notice the numerous arrivals from Curacao and Venezuela, passengers that continue their itineries with Trans Caribbean northbound. On those days the KLM arrival of 9:15 a.m. apparently acts as a feeder to the TCA flight, a real chance to what used to be when, other flights acted as feeders to KLM’s northbound departures.
The interesting question that comes to our mind is: what will TCA do with its surplus DC6 equipment when it has inaugurated its jet flights. One possibility of course would be, the solution that many air lines are presently already investigating, e.g. sale to smaller airlines, use as freight transports, or lease to other parties. Our belief is however that Trans Caribbean, which of course will still require one DC6 for the Aruba—Puerto Rico route, will utilize its other DC 6 aircrafts on new routes, such as the extension from Aruba to Surinam, and the increase of its frequency of flights between Aruba and Puerto Rico vice versa.
Those travellers which will make use of TCA after October 1, of this year, will in any case be able to enjoy jetflights between Aruba and New York, at least a great part of the trip. Although one may expect a slight increase of perhaps $5 each way for the part of the trip flown by jet, this will still not affect the reasonable rate then in effect for a partial jetflight to New York City.
One other item, that although not a novelty on its own, because K.L.M. Royal Dutch Airlines, for many yaers has done so as well, although possibly not as intensely for Aruba, is the vigorous advertizing campaign kept up by TCA in the United States and Porto Rico. A recent very attractive ad featured the slogan: ’’SHOP IN ARUBA !”, listing some of the low prices in effect in Aruba, for perfumes, liquors, silverware,etc. It does not need any emphasizing why the Aruba business community sincerely underwrites this advertizing campaign.
From New York Times :
Abadan Wary of Iran Reforms; Fears Oil Exports Bay Be Hurt
By JAY WALZ
ABADAN, Iran, May 25 — Oil-exporting Abadan views the peaceful revolution of Premier Ali Amini through a reversed telescope.
This island city at the head of the Persian Gulf feels it has to keep its eye on Teheran. This is so because just ten years ago the revolution of Mohammed Mossadegh, the nationalist leader, temporarily upset Shah Mohammed Riza Pahlevi and nationalized, then paralyzed, the oil business.
”It could happen again,” an oil executive told a visitor. The executive added: ’’But it’s best for us not to mix with Teheran politics.”
The feeling here is that ’’Teheran politics” should be kept at a distance appropriate to the 400 miles that separate the two places geographically. This is true, even though there is general acceptance and support of Premier Amini and his reforms.
The oil companies admire Dr. Amini because of the
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skill with which he conducted the Government’s side of the negotiations that brought them back into business in 1954.
However, Abadan’s worries go deeper, for this municipaity at least, than corruption in Government and unfair elections.
Abadan, by Iranian standards, is seemingly a boom town. The Iranian Oil Refining Company, a member of the six international companies working Iran’s oil fields, is processing a record 412,000 barrels of crude a day. It is the largest refining plant in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Abadan has sanitation facilities, medical centers, subsidized food supplies .summer camps for children and training schools. Few of the privileges and conveniences of a model company town are missing, and its World War II population of 120,000 has more than doubled. That is the chief trouble.
All the good things of life attracted too many people to this one-industry town. Following an old Iranian custom, less fortunate relatives and in-laws from the barren countryside have moved in with the lucky wage earners.
Today only one person in ten here works directly for the two principal employers. These are the refiaing plant and the Government-owned National Iranian Oil Company.
Frank E. Griffin, the American manager of the refining company, has more staff and workmen than he can efficiently use. He says if he is to stay in the highly competitieve oil market, he must introduce
new, labor-saving methods. At present, he has 18,000 on his payroll.
The National Iranian Oil Company has no direct oil operations in Abadan. But it keeps 7,000 workers on nonbasic” projects, including the construction of houses for refining company employees. Some think these workers might be diverted to building houses for themselves.
The company, which lives on royalties paid by the foreign oil companies, is in the process of taking over all of the refining company’s side-line activities — the workers’ clubs, the health center, the training institute, the sanitation services, and the cinema.
Abdullah Nasr, the company’s energetic young assistant manager, said that there was a special program to help young men get ahead, but that the older men were usually reluctant to make room for them.
Neither organization, at present, has any need for additional workers, and Abadan is accumulating a sizable labor reserve, including a restless, younger group that has tasted the good life, and would like to grow up in it.
It seems futile for the Government to try now to get these young people ’’back on the farm”, where they are needed to improve Iran’s backward agricultural industry.
Even the older folk, eligible for enough severance pay to see themselves up in a new business, do not want to leave Abadan.
Professoren Lieftinck en Goedhart
De R.V.D. berichtte : Antillen
volgende maand naar de
Door de Regeering van de Nederlandse Antillen is aan de professoren dr. P. Lieftinck en dr. C. Goedhart verzocht om op grond van een door hen met medewerking van de zijde van het Internationale Monetaire Fonds in te stelen onderzoek naar de vooruitzichten voor de expansie van de Antilliaanse economie met in achtneming van de bestaande ontwikkelingsplannen advies aan de Regering uit te brengen over de financiële draagkracht van het land alsmede zijn credietwaardigheid met het oog op het aangaan van buitenlandse leningen.
De heren zullen op 10 juni a.s. op Curacao aankomen en gedurende ruim twee weken in de Nederlandse Antillen verblijven.
Teneinde het onderzoek van deze adviseurs voor te bereiden is gisteren op Curasao aangekomen de heer drs. J. H .C. de Looper, deskundige van het Internationale Monetaire Fonds.
Zoals bekend is professor Lieftinck thans directeur van het Internationale Monetaire Fonds, terwijl professor Goedhart verbonden is aan de Gemeentelijke Universiteit te Amsterdam.
Hulp Special Fund voor de Antillen
De R.V.D. berichtte :
In verband met het verzoek van de Regering van de Nederlandse Antillen om hulp van het Special Fund van de Verenigde Naties zullen binnenkort door de Technical Assistance Board te New York naar de Nederlandse Antillen twee deskundigen worden uitgezonden, die de Regering zullen bijstaan bij het op stellen van haar definitieve aanvraag om financiële hulp.
Tegen 15 juni a.s. komen hier aan de heren Hawes, een Brits waterdeskundige en Carman ,een Canadese mijnbouwexpert alsmede een deskundige op economisch gebied. De heren zullen hier zes weken verblijven.
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