About the Forum
The OCTs-EU Forum is the highest-level platform for annual dialogue between the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), the European Union, and the EU Member States. Members of the European Parliament, the European Investment Bank and representatives of the EU Outermost Regions are associated partners.
The last Forum took place in Brussels in February 2024. The 2026 edition will be hosted by Aruba from 9 to 14 April, in its capacity as the current Chair of the OCTs’ Association (OCTA).
The 2026 OCTs-EU Forum serves as a moment to take stock of cooperation, discuss priorities of common interest and guide the partnership strategically.
In the context of heightened strategic competition, geopolitical fragmentation and shifting regional dynamics, the Forum provides a timely opportunity to leverage the OCTs’ unique position as strategic outposts of the EU, and to develop a more proactive, investment-oriented engagement aligned with the Global Gateway strategy.
An Investment Conference, organised as part of the Forum will enable engagement between the OCTs, Member States, International/Development Finance Institutions (I/DFIs) and selected European companies around the regional priorities and bankable solutions, preparatory actions, and future investment pathways.
- 9–10 AprilTrilateral technical meetings
The Forum opens with trilateral technical meetings between OCTs, their Member States and the European Commission (DG INTPA), enabling in-depth dialogue on cooperation priorities and ongoing programmes.
- 11 AprilMinisterial Conference of the OCTs’ Association (OCTA)
The Ministerial Conference of the OCTs’ Association (OCTA) brings together political representatives to discuss strategic orientations and strengthen collective positions.
- 11-13 AprilTrilateral High-level meetings
Meetings between OCTs, their Member States and the European Commission will take place to address regional priorities and strategic questions.
- 12 AprilField visit & bilateral
Participants are invited to a field visit across Aruba, including Park Arikok, San Nicolas, the University of Aruba, and a lunch at Aruba’s Directorate for EU and Kingdom Relations.
Forum plenary session
The core of the Forum, featuring:
- High-level political statements from OCT leaders, Member States and EU institutions
- Adoption of Joint Forum Conclusions
- Signature ceremony for key regional programmes and initiatives
- 13–14 AprilInvestment conference
Dedicated sessions focused on translating political priorities into concrete investment opportunities, including:
- Mobilising investment under the Global Gateway
- Private sector engagement and scaling opportunities
- Regional flagship initiatives (e.g. sargassum management in the Caribbean)
Practical Information
Practical information regarding registration, accommodation, venue location, transportation, etc., is available under the 'Related documents' section.