September 24, 2026 No comments
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell and Lebanese Ambassador Minkara Discuss Strengthening Relations and Exploring Opportunities
THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten H.E. Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, this week welcomed H.E. Walid Minkara, Ambassador of Lebanon to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, for a courtesy meeting focused on strengthening relations and exploring opportunities for closer economic and people-to-people ties. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on the Lebanese diaspora and its longstanding entrepreneurial presence in the Caribbean and Latin America, particularly in areas such as commerce, tourism, hospitality and real estate. The discussion also highlighted Sint Maarten's economic resilience and recovery, its strong tourism sector and its strategic position within the Caribbean. Particular attention was given to opportunities for foreign investment, tourism, real estate, services and entrepreneurship, as well as Sint Maarten's efforts...
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September 23, 2026 No comments
Stuart Johnson Participates in International Seminar on Populism, Democracy and Economic Development
SINT MAARTEN/NEW YORK - Stuart Johnson, Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, participated virtually in the international seminar titled “Populism and the Persistence of Latin America’s Democratic and Economic Underperformance,” presented by Professor Javier Corrales of Amherst College on 22 September 2026. The seminar, organized by the Centre for Latin American Research and Documentation (CEDLA) of the University of Amsterdam, examined the relationship between populism, democratic institutions and economic development throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Professor Corrales explored how populist movements can concentrate authority within the executive branch, weaken institutional safeguards, diminish the role of expertise and deepen political polarization. His research argues that recurring populism—whether associated with the political left or right—can contribute to a cycle...
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September 23, 2026 No comments
Third Reading Festival Sint Maarten Edition Kicks Off This Week
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – The Third Reading Festival: Sint Maarten Edition officially gets underway, with activities taking place this week leading up to the two-day festival on September 25 and 26, 2026. Stichting Biblionef Netherlands, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, the Library of Sint Maarten, Help Our Children Foundation, and the University of St. Martin (USM), is once again bringing together students, educators, authors, families and community partners to celebrate the joy of reading and learning. Now in its third year, the Reading Festival continues to grow, with this year’s program introducing new and interactive experiences alongside popular activities such as storytelling, author visits, creative workshops, educational games and book giveaways. Students will also have opportunities...
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September 23, 2026 No comments
Religious Services Return to Point Blanche Prison
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Last Month inmates at Point Blanche Prison in Sint Maarten participated in the first religious services held at the facility in eight (8) months. The resumption of religious programming, following a suspension, marks an important step in expanding opportunities for spiritual support, personal development, and positive engagement with the wider community as part of the prison's broader rehabilitation efforts. The first services on August 1st and 2nd, conducted jointly by the Anglican and Moravian Churches of Sint Maarten, both members of the Christian Council, provided an opportunity for prayer, reflection, and spiritual connection. The gathering brought together faith and community and highlighted the important role that spiritual care can play within a correctional environment. Archdeacon Terrence Rawlings,...
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September 23, 2026 No comments
WIB Hosts Prostate Cancer Awareness Discussion for Male Employees
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – As part of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the Windward Islands Bank (WIB) hosted a prostate cancer awareness discussion, bringing together male colleagues for an open conversation about men’s health, prostate cancer, and the importance of being proactive about their health. The session was supported by the Positive and Elektralytes Foundation, whose work focuses on cancer awareness, education, and encouraging open conversations around health and early detection. A particularly meaningful contribution came from Michael Ferrier, a prostate cancer survivor of more than 20 years, who shared his personal journey with colleagues. His openness, humour, and willingness to speak from experience brought a personal and relatable perspective to the discussion, helping create an environment where participants could ask questions,...
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