April 13, 2026 No comments
OCTA Ministerial Conference Convenes in Aruba to Shape Future of OCT–EU Partnership
ARUBA (ORANJESTAD) – The Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA) convened its annual Ministerial Conference in Aruba, bringing together political leaders and senior representatives from across the OCTs to discuss the future direction of OCTA and its partnership with the European Union (EU). The meeting was opened by OCTA Chair and Prime Minister of Aruba, Mike Eman, who emphasized the importance of a strong, unified OCTA. He highlighted the organization’s strategic role in maintaining close engagement with the European Union and underscored the shared responsibility of OCTs as Europe’s frontline presence across the Caribbean, Pacific and Artic regions. A central focus of the conference was the need to strengthen OCTA’s institutional capacity, governance, and financial sustainability. Delegations emphasized improving coordination, accessibility for...
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April 12, 2026 No comments
State Secretary of Kingdom Relations Eric van der Burg Concludes First Part of Dutch Caribbean Visit on Sint Maarten
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - “This week, I visited Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten—three islands, each with their own challenges and tremendous strength,” said the State Secretary of Kingdom Relations, reflecting on the first part of his working visit to the Dutch Caribbean. The visit began with stops on Saba and Sint Eustatius, where the State Secretary assessed local projects, met with government officials, and engaged with community leaders to better understand the islands’ unique challenges and opportunities. The working visit concluded on April 10th in Sint Maarten, where the State Secretary, together with PM Dr. Luc Mercelina, toured several key sites and reviewed initiatives aimed at strengthening the island’s infrastructure and community development. Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina emphasized the importance of...
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April 12, 2026 No comments
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell: Sint Maarten Positions Itself for Increased EU Funding for National Priorities
THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – On Thursday, April 9th, 2026, the Sint Maarten delegation, headed by Minister Plenipotentiary Gracita R. Arrindell, participated in a trilateral meeting with representatives of the Netherlands and the European Commission in Aruba, held on the margins of the European Union-Overseas Countries Territories (EU-OCT) Forum. The meeting focused on accountability and forward planning, including a review of ongoing EU-funded projects and the identification of future cooperation priorities and strategic investments. These discussions are particularly timely, as they will help inform the European Union’s upcoming long-term budget cycle set to begin in 2028. Participants underscored the importance of strengthened collaboration amid a period of global uncertainty and transition. By engaging early in this forum, Sint Maarten is positioning itself to...
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April 12, 2026 No comments
CPS COVID Vaccines Available for Adults and Children on April 17. Call for an Appointment
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), COVID, would like to inform the general public that the clinic at the CPS Offices at the Vineyard Building Office Park in Philipsburg, is open for COVID vaccines by appointment only, and the next available date is April 17. The CPS clinic is open for COVID vaccines for persons aged 12 and older on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Due to limited supply, CPS is requesting persons to call or email for an appointment by calling 914 (option 4) or 542-1570, or via email vaccination@sintmaartengov.org The booster is entirely free of charge and voluntary. Please bring your vaccination card and a form of Identification (ID) when you have...
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April 12, 2026 No comments
CPS: Safe Food Practices Key to Preventing Gastroenteritis during Carnival 2026
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season. With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety. Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes...
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