Philipsburg — The Honorable Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, Dr. Luc Mercelina, extends sincere congratulations to the people of the Netherlands for their active participation in the recent national elections and for upholding the enduring democratic values that unite the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

“With nearly all votes counted, the Dutch people have once again demonstrated their deep commitment to democracy and civic engagement,” said Prime Minister Mercelina. “The close results reflect a vibrant political landscape and the strength of public discourse within the Kingdom.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- As of Thursday, with 99.7% of the votes counted, the Democrats 66 (D66) under Rob Jetten and the Party for Freedom (PVV) led by Geert Wilders are tied at 26 seats each, separated by only a few thousand votes. Remaining ballots, particularly those cast by Dutch citizens abroad, are expected to determine which leader will be invited to begin coalition consultations next week.

Prime Minister Mercelina commended both leading parties and all others that participated for contributing to a healthy democratic process. “I extend congratulations to all parties and leaders for their participation in this important exercise, and I particularly recognize Mr. Jetten and Mr. Wilders for the trust their supporters have placed in them. Regardless of who ultimately leads the coalition process, the people have clearly expressed their desire for strong, effective governance.”

PM Dr. Mercelina also took the opportunity to acknowledge the outgoing Dutch government for its cooperation and engagement throughout its tenure. “We are grateful for the collaboration and dialogue we have maintained with the outgoing administration across key areas such as disaster recovery, climate resilience, and financial management. Their efforts have contributed to progress within the Kingdom and have built a foundation for the new coalition to continue strengthening our collective future.”

Looking ahead, Prime Minister Mercelina reaffirmed Sint Maarten’s commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with the incoming government in The Hague. “Sint Maarten stands ready to work with the next Dutch administration whichever coalition is formed to deepen our partnership based on mutual respect, equality, and shared responsibility. Together, we must continue advancing sustainable development, energy resilience, and economic diversification for the benefit of all citizens within the Kingdom.”

He concluded, “The strength of our Kingdom lies not only in our shared democratic values, but in our respect for the diversity that defines us. As I have often said, the Kingdom of the Netherlands must be recognized and celebrated not because of our similarities, but because of the differences that enrich and strengthen us. As the Netherlands prepares to form its next government, Sint Maarten remains steadfast in its commitment to cooperation, transparency, and partnership, grounded in the belief that our differences make our Kingdom stronger, more resilient, and more united.”

`A cultural showcase of iconic looks, bold creativity, and Fearless energy set to light up the Parades.`

PHILIPSBURG:---  Following the June announcement of its 2026 Carnival theme, Secrets Mas SXM by Rio Productions proudly presents REFLECTIONS, a vibrant tribute to St. Maarten’s culture.

As the island celebrates its 55th Carnival anniversary, REFLECTIONS is more than a theme; the 2026 showcase will honor the craft, rhythm, laughter, and devotion that define St. Maarten’s culture. Iconic designs from past seasons will return in vibrant reinterpretations. REFLECTIONS celebrates the soul of who we are and the connection between culture, music, movement, and community. 

“REFLECTIONS as a theme is deeply personal to me,” said Brenda Wathey of Rio Productions. “We’re celebrating where we’ve been and where we’re headed, but also the people and the passion that have carried Carnival through the years. It honors our history while infusing it with bold creativity, fearless energy, and a deep love for the culture. It’s about honoring the hands and hearts that built carnival and channeling their legacy through new designs and reinterpretations. Dating back to the very beginning with our costume designers Gregory Medina and Christopher Santos, right up to Dellan Thomas and Alicia Hart”.

“Each section tells a story, fusing traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flair and energy, and every element in our costumes blends the beauty of yesterday with the brilliance of today. Revellers will see that what we’re bringing to the road in 2026 is not just costumes or fashion; it’s carnival itself, that magical moment when culture, art, and people come together as one,” said Alicia Hart, Lead Designer.

Participants can expect:

• Bold designs.

• Vibrant energy
• A celebration of culture.

• An unforgettable road experience.

“As Rio Productions is known for its lighted parades, we’re especially thrilled to see this concept now officially included in the SCDF Carnival schedule,” added Wathey. “What began as a creative spark grew into one of the island’s most anticipated parades outside of Carnival, and we’re excited to see that same light and energy continue through the 2026 Labor Day Parade. We invite all Carnival lovers to join in the experience. This is the season to celebrate boldly, fearlessly, and make unforgettable memories.”

InterExpo Caribbean NV organizes the 36^th congress “Fifteen years after 10/10/10” on 9, 10 and 11 December 2025 in the press- and debate centre Nieuwspoort in The Hague.

10 October 2010 is a memorable day. On this day, in accordance with the policy of the fourth Balkenende cabinet, the Netherlands Antilles were dissolved and the countries of Curaçao and Sint Maarten were established. The islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba became part of the Netherlands as public entities on that day.

The 36^th Congress aims to be a retrospective of fifteen years since the constitutional reform of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Political officials, parliamentarians, representatives from the business community, and academia will gather for a wide-ranging debate on the development of the autonomous islands and public bodies in the Caribbean within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. A variety of current topics will be addressed during the congress. The key question is: what do the islands expect from the Netherlands, and what does the Netherlands expect from the islands?

The conference will be officially opened by State Secretary Eddie van Marum of Kingdom Relations. Keynote speakers include Minister of State Prof. Dr. Jan Peter Balkenende, the National Ombudsman Mr. Reinier van Zutphen, Prof. Dr. Edwin Bleichrodt, Attorney General at the Supreme Court of the Netherlands, Ms. Sarah Wescot-Williams, Speaker of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, Drs. Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, Mr. Mike G. Eman, Prime Minister of Aruba, and many others.

During the conference, a joint presentation will be given by Mr. Geoffrey Wever, Minister of Finance of Aruba, and Ms. Lidewijde Ongering of the Financial Supervision Board (CFT). The core of the presentation will be how the CFT anticipates the current financial situation and what the future holds.

The conference offers space for speakers who are critical of the structure of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the roles played and still played by the Netherlands and its Caribbean constituents. It also features speakers who champion the shared values ​​within the Kingdom and the opportunities it offers.

Over the past year, elections have been held in various countries within the Kingdom, and new parliaments have been installed. It is unique that all the countries within the Kingdom are meeting in The Hague, in the Tweede Kamer building, with new members of parliament so soon after a new parliament was installed in the Netherlands. This provides an opportunity for parliamentarians from the various countries within the Kingdom to get acquainted and exchange ideas.

The conference also provides a platform for scholars to reflect on relevant aspects of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom from their own perspectives.

Several panel discussions will be chaired by Prof. Dr. Ernst Hirsch Ballin, former Minister of Justice and Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands, and Ms. Suzy Camelia Römer, former Prime Minister of Curaçao, politician, and currently a research associate at the University of Curaçao. The conference chair will be Prof. Dr. Peter Diekman RA.

Curaçao, 30 October 2025

~approximately 70 persons in attendance ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- C’z Exclusive Business Services, in collaboration with the National Employment Services Centre (NESC), proudly hosted its second Job Fair at the Government Administration Building. The event welcomed many job seekers who participated in on-the-spot interviews conducted by attending companies, and several candidates were hired later that same day.

The initiative aimed to explore innovative recruitment opportunities and strengthen connections between employers and talented job seekers across various sectors.

C’z Exclusive Business Services is a trusted job placement agency that connects qualified candidates with reputable organizations. Beyond recruitment, the company provides a variety of professional services including outsourcing, payroll, courier operations, accounting, and banking support, among others.

Founded in 2018, the National Employment Services Centre (NESC) is dedicated to supporting local employment through training, digital matchmaking, and strategic partnerships with the private sector. Its mission is to create sustainable job opportunities and enhance employability within the community.

Throughout the event, C’z Exclusive Business Services representatives and participating employers conducted first-round interviews. Candidates who were not immediately placed will have their résumés forwarded to potential clients for review and possible second-round interviews. Follow-up emails will be sent to inform applicants of their status, while all submissions will remain on file for future vacancies.

According to Ms. Hook, CEO of C’z Exclusive Business Services, this successful partnership between C’z Exclusive Business Services and NESC highlights their ongoing commitment to empowering job seekers, supporting local businesses, and strengthening St. Maarten’s workforce.

As C’z Exclusive and NESC look ahead, both organizations remain committed to building stronger partnerships, creating meaningful opportunities, and helping every candidate take the next step toward a brighter professional future.