Virgin Islands Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) recently led a delegation to a strategic trade mission to Sint Maarten, to engage in high-level dialogue to advance mutual interests in maritime, trade, agriculture, tourism, health services, and financial services. Photo: Facebook

The completion of the historic bilateral trade mission marked a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between the Virgin Islands and Sint Maarten. Photo: Facebook

Deputy Speaker and Parliamentary Lead on Agriculture and Fisheries Dr the Honourable Karl Dawson (R1), 3rd from right, engages government officials of Sint Maarten. Photo: Facebook

The premier and his team met with Prime Minister Dr Luc F. E. Mercelina, senior officials, technical experts, and public service professionals from both governments for direct and productive engagement aimed at strengthening ties between the two Territories.

“This mission has strengthened our commitment to collaborate more closely on sustainable development, economic growth, and regional resilience. The Government of the Virgin Islands is proud to work alongside Sint Maarten to pioneer innovative solutions to common challenges and fully support their intention to pursue membership in the OECS,” Premier Wheatley stated in a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on May 26, 2025.

“By combining our strengths and resources, we can create lasting benefits for our people and help shape a stronger, more united Caribbean future. I look forward to deepening our partnership and delivering concrete outcomes that will uplift both our territories in the years ahead,” Premier Wheatley added.

Both leaders emphasised their shared commitment to leveraging their territories’ unique strengths to foster closer ties, enhance regional cooperation, and promote sustainable economic growth for the benefit of their peoples during the discussions.

Sint Maarten proudly recognises VI’s leadership

Meanwhile, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten Dr Luc F. E. Mercelina stated that his country proudly recognises the leadership of the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sub-regional Sustainable Development Network.

The Prime Minister said, “We expressed our support during the discussions and reaffirmed our intent to explore membership in the OECS, as deeper integration is no longer a luxury but a necessity in our changing geopolitical landscape.

“This first-of-its-kind meeting signalled the beginning of something greater. We have planted the seeds of collaboration, and we are committed to cultivating them into results-driven partnerships that will uplift the people of both our islands.”

A high-level plenary session was also held both in-person and virtually by ministers and parliamentarians, including Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL); Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith (R4); and Deputy Speaker and Parliamentary Lead on Agriculture and Fisheries Dr the Honourable Karl Dawson (R1).