Prime Minister of the Netherlands concludes official working visit to St. Eustatius

Statia Government welcomed the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Rob Jetten, as he concluded an official working visit to the island as part of a broader tour of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Jetten was received at the F. D. Roosevelt Airport by Island Governor Alida Francis. The visit served as a pivotal platform for high-level dialogue regarding the island’s strategic priorities and its future within the Kingdom.

“Today I had the opportunity to speak with the Island Governor, the Executive Council, and members of the Island Council about a broad range of topics concerning our cooperation in the years ahead,” stated Prime Minister Jetten during a press briefing before his departure. “Amongst other things, we discussed how to further enhance the island’s governance and what will be needed to strengthen Statia’s economy and society.”

During his intensive one-day programme, the Prime Minister engaged in a high-level dialogue with the Executive Council, to address critical matters of importance to Statia. His itinerary also included gaining economic insight during a tour of Global Terminals and Infrastructure (GTI) Statia to observe the terminal’s vital role within the local and regional economy, followed by legislative engagement during a working lunch with all members of the Island Council and the Island Registrar to focus on shared administrative goals. The visit concluded with a cultural heritage tour of Madam Theatre and Fort Oranje, led by Region Deal Programme Managers Raimie Richardson and Nicole Asin, which highlighted Statia’s historical significance and the ongoing preparations for the milestone Statia Day 2026 celebrations.

In alignment with the goal of fostering sustainable regional success, the discussions focussed on creating long-term partnerships that deliver consistent policy and social benefits for the people of Statia.

Statia Government expresses its sincere appreciation for the Prime Minister’s visit and the exceptionally constructive engagement throughout the day. As this marks his first official visit to Statia since being sworn in earlier this year. Prime Minister Jetten, the youngest in Dutch history, brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to the relationship. This visit represents a revitalised commitment to the dialogue between Statia and the Netherlands, reinforcing a partnership built on shared priorities and regional stability.