PM Dr. Luc Mercelina and VNG Chair and Mayor of Utrecht Sharon Dijksma signing the document.
PHILIPSBURG--The Government of St Maarten has taken another significant step in strengthening its civil service and unlocking funding opportunities with the formal signing of the Certificate of Extraordinary Membership with the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG International).
The signing took place immediately following a high-level working meeting between the Government of St. Maarten and VNG International representatives.
Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina was accompanied by a delegation that included Minister Plenipotentiary of St Maarten Gracita Arrindell and the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff Stuart Johnson.
The certificate, co-signed by Mercelina and VNG Chair and Mayor of Utrecht Sharon Dijksma, officially recognises St. Maarten's extraordinary membership. Reflecting on the occasion, Mercelina said, “The signing of this certificate is far more than a formality, it is a statement of confidence in St. Maarten’s future. Through this strengthened partnership with VNG International, we are unlocking new avenues of support, knowledge exchange, and technical expertise that will directly improve the lives of our people.”
During the meeting, the Government of St. Maarten and VNG International discussed several priority areas for a 10-year programme. These include enhancing mental health services, supporting the training of medical professionals and transitioning toward greener and more sustainable energy sources. The discussions also addressed outstanding technical assistance under the Temporary Work Organisation (TWO) country packages, including the status of available support and the potential reallocation of remaining resources.
Mercelina underscored the value of these areas of cooperation, saying, “We are committed to modernizing St. Maarten through evidence-based policies, professional capacity, and strong partnerships. VNG International can help us build the systems and expertise our ministries and institutions need to deliver at the highest level.”
Human resource development also featured prominently in the discussions, with a focus on recruitment needs in key ministries, the creation of training opportunities for medical specialists, and the development of pathways for other medical personnel in anticipation of the opening of St. Maarten’s new hospital. These initiatives align with the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the civil service and enhance the island’s professional workforce.
“Our people are our greatest resource,” Mercelina said. “By investing in training and development, we are investing in a stronger, more resilient St. Maarten.”
The signing of the certificate symbolises shared values of equality, trust, and responsible cooperation between St. Maarten and VNG International. Concluding the meeting, Mercelina said, “St. Maarten stands ready to work side-by-side with VNG International to build the strong, professional, service-oriented public sector our citizens deserve. Today’s signing marks a new chapter, one where cooperation leads to real, tangible progress for our island nation.”
