New Era of Partnership Between Virgin Islands and Sint Maarten
New Era of Partnership Between Virgin Islands and Sint Maarten
Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley recently led a strategic trade delegation to Sint Maarten.
The visit aimed to engage in direct, high-level dialogue focused on advancing shared interests in maritime affairs, trade,
agriculture, tourism, health services, and financial services.
To initiate the mission, the Premier and his team held focused meetings with
Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, senior officials, technical experts, and public service professionals from both governments.
Together, they pursued a clear objective:
to strengthen ties and foster deeper cooperation between the two territories.
Speaking on the partnership, Premier Wheatley described Sint Maarten as a vibrant, forward-thinking partner.
He emphasized its energy and strategic vision as essential to achieving common goals,
including sustainable growth and stronger regional integration.
“This mission reaffirmed our resolve to
collaborate more closely on sustainable development and regional resilience,”
Premier Wheatley said.
“We stand ready to pioneer innovative solutions to common challenges.
In support of regional unity, we fully endorse Sint Maarten’s intention to join the OECS.”He continued,
“When we unite our strengths and resources, we generate long-term benefits for our people.
As we move forward, I look forward to solidifying this partnership and delivering
tangible results that will uplift both territories.
”Moreover, both leaders committed to using their territories’ unique advantages to foster deeper ties, expand regional cooperation,
and promote inclusive economic growth.
During the discussions, Prime Minister Mercelina acknowledged the Virgin Islands’
leadership within the Caribbean Sub-regional
Sustainable Development Network.
In alignment with this vision, he reaffirmed Sint Maarten’s dedication to joining the OECS
and noted the growing need for regional integration.
“Integration is not a luxury—it’s a necessity,” he said.
“This historic meeting signals the beginning of a powerful partnership.
As a result of our dialogue, we’ve planted the seeds of collaboration,
and we will cultivate them into action-oriented outcomes that benefit our people.
”Additionally, ministers and parliamentarians joined the effort in a high-level plenary session,
held both in-person and virtually.
Key participants included Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE
(Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation),
Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith (Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture),
and Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson (Deputy Speaker and Parliamentary Lead on Agriculture and Fisheries).
Ultimately, the successful completion of this bilateral trade mission marks a major milestone in the Virgin Islands–
Sint Maarten partnership.
Through mutual understanding and sustained dialogue, both governments laid a solid
foundation for future cooperation across key sectors.
Looking ahead, as they formalise agreements and implement joint initiatives,
citizens in both territories can expect tangible progress.
With shared purpose and renewed commitment, the path ahead promises a stronger,
more united Caribbean—driven by trust, innovation, and shared identity.
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