THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, received Sint Maarten Governor H.E. Ajamu Baly on Monday, 14 September 2026, during the Governor’s working visit to the Netherlands. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on various matters of importance to the country.
Among the topics discussed were ongoing developments in the area of European Union (EU) affairs, including EU funding opportunities and the importance of developing investment-ready projects and strengthening regional cooperation in order to align with the European Union’s programming priorities in the coming years.
The parties also discussed ways to address brain drain and strengthen ties with Sint Maarteners living in the Netherlands. Minister Arrindell highlighted the Cabinet’s efforts through its diaspora database to keep the diaspora engaged and to assist in identifying and matching suitably qualified candidates with key positions and opportunities on the island.
The minister also highlighted initiatives such as student engagement sessions and the upcoming Sint Maarten’s Day celebration, which provide opportunities to maintain connections with Sint Maarteners in the Netherlands and strengthen their involvement within the Cabinet’s networks.
The discussion further focused on the Cabinet’s efforts to make greater use of the knowledge, expertise and professional networks available in the Netherlands, including through organizations such as VNG and other partners, to help address key priorities in Sint Maarten.
These efforts are aimed at connecting relevant expertise and resources in the Netherlands with concrete needs and opportunities on the island.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation, as well as the effective use of Sint Maarten’s networks in the Netherlands, to support the country’s development priorities.
