WILLEMSTAD – On Monday, September 8, 2025, the Government of Curaçao officially welcomed Bermuda’s Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture, and Sport, Owen Darrell, ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Curaçao and Bermuda. The visit underscored the close relationship between the two countries, both associate members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Minister Darrell was received at Hato International Airport by Sithree van Heydoorn, Curaçao’s Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sport. During a presentation, he was briefed on Curaçao’s recent border modernization efforts and the digital innovations introduced to make travel faster, safer, and more welcoming.

The presentation was led by Gerold Daantje, Senior Director of the Immigration Service, together with representatives of the police and immigration team. Special focus was given to the new Curaçao Express Pass and E-Gates, which use digital identity verification to ensure efficient and secure border crossings.

Minister Van Heydoorn expressed his appreciation for his Bermudian counterpart’s visit, emphasizing that the occasion was valuable not only in the sporting context but also in strengthening cooperation between CARICOM members.

The airport visit concluded with a tour, where Minister Darrell was given a close look at the digital border systems, including demonstrations of the Express Pass and E-Gates. On Tuesday, September 9, the highlight of his visit will be the World Cup qualifier between Curaçao and Bermuda.