PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Dr. Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister of St. Maarten, has expressed his sincere appreciation to airport personnel and key stakeholders for their decisive and coordinated actions following the temporary disruption of flights over the weekend and the beginning of the week, stemming from heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela.

The disruption, which peaked at the start of Saturday, January 3, affected several inbound and outbound flights, leaving passengers stranded and residents facing unexpected delays in returning home.

Thanks to the swift response and collaboration among stakeholders, flight operations were safely resumed, and impacted passengers received critical assistance and support.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the dedicated staff of Princess Juliana International Airport, Air Traffic Controllers, the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM), airline partners, ground handlers, security personnel, emergency services, and all other relevant stakeholders who acted swiftly and professionally during this challenging situation,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated.

“Their collective efforts ensured that stranded passengers were cared for, that our residents were supported in their return home, and that normal flight operations could resume as quickly and safely as possible.”

The Prime Minister also highlightled the importance of preparedness and cooperation during periods of international uncertainty.

“This incident demonstrates the strength of our institutions and the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation. Despite circumstances beyond our control, the response reflected professionalism, compassion, and a strong commitment to public safety and service,” he added.
Prime Minister Mercelina further reassured the public that the Government of St. Maarten remains in close communication with regional and international partners to monitor developments and mitigate any potential impact on travel, tourism, and national security.

“I commend everyone involved for placing people first. Your actions reinforced confidence in our aviation sector and demonstrated St. Maarten’s readiness to respond calmly and responsibly during unforeseen disruptions,” the Prime Minister concluded.

The Government of St. Maarten thanks the traveling public for their patience and understanding and reiterates its commitment to ensuring safe, secure, and reliable air travel for residents and visitors alike.

 Simpson Bay, St. Maarten:---  The Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA), in collaboration with the Simpson Bay Fireworks Association, is pleased to announce the return of Crew Year’s Eve, set to take place on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Crew Year’s Eve has become a much-anticipated tradition within St. Maarten’s maritime calendar, bringing together crew, marine professionals, residents, and visitors for an evening that celebrates the island’s vibrant marine community. The event will once again feature a festive atmosphere capped off with a spectacular fireworks display over Simpson Bay.
Following the strong turnout and positive response to previous editions, the SMMTA looks forward to welcoming the community for another memorable celebration. Crew Year’s Eve continues to serve as a moment of appreciation for the hard-working crews and businesses that contribute year-round to St. Maarten’s reputation as a leading yachting and maritime destination.
In addition to the main fireworks celebration scheduled for 10pm, several marinas will host events, welcoming both the maritime community and the wider public.
The SMMTA extends its sincere appreciation to the event partners and sponsors whose continued support makes Crew Year’s Eve possible: IGY Marinas, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance, Palapa Marina, Port of St. Maarten, Skyport Marina, Simpson Bay Resort, Pro Serve Marine, Island Water World, Napa, BWA Yachting, Carrefour, Steve Coetzer, PDG Supplies, and Bluwater Construction. Their commitment reflects the strength of collaboration within the marine sector and the shared pride in celebrating the people who power it.

Willemstad/Philipsburg:---  The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) has been informed of the passing of Mr. Hushang Ansary and expresses its condolences to his family. With respect to the ongoing proceedings, the CBCS remains committed to recovering the losses suffered by Ennia.
Mr. Ansary’s attorney has informed the Joint Court of Justice of his passing. On that basis, the Court has stayed the liability proceedings against Mr. Ansary pending notification of his assumption of the position in the proceedings. Once this notification has been received, the proceedings can be resumed. It should be noted that the liability proceedings are not directed solely against Mr. Ansary personally, but also against other parties, including a legal entity affiliated with Mr. Ansary. Mr. Ansary’s passing does not change the legal position of these parties.
The CBCS remains fully committed to recovering Ennia’s losses from former directors and shareholders and will continue to take the necessary steps to protect these interests, including, where required, appropriate legal action against their legal successors.
Willemstad, January 6, 2026 CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN

Willemstad, January 6, 2026 – The Government of Curaçao has announced the reappointment of a high-level representative to the Dutch Embassy in Washington, D.C., following a decision by the Council of Ministers. This move comes in response to dynamic geopolitical developments and strategic priorities in areas such as economics, tourism, justice, and security.
Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, who also serves as Minister of General Affairs, has appointed Mr. Jérôme Beeldsnijder as the Plenipotentiary Minister of Curaçao at the Dutch Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Mr. Beeldsnijder, born in Suriname and raised in Tera Kòrá, Curaçao, brings a wealth of experience to the role. After completing his secondary education on the island, he pursued studies at the Royal Military Academy (KMA) in the Netherlands. His distinguished career includes service as a professional officer and multiple deployments to the former Yugoslavia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, where he participated in special operations and collaborated with international intelligence agencies.
In addition to his military background, Mr. Beeldsnijder has held leadership roles as the director of National Security Services in both Sint Maarten and Curaçao. His extensive experience in managing complex situations, international decision-making, and strategic networking will be instrumental in advancing Curaçao's national interests.
As Plenipotentiary Minister, Mr. Beeldsnijder will focus on strengthening Curaçao's strategic relationships within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and with international partners. His efforts will prioritize security, geopolitical developments, justice, economic cooperation, and global positioning. His deep understanding of international security issues and his robust network within defense and security structures align closely with Curaçao's current and future priorities in the region.
Mr. Beeldsnijder will officially begin his duties in Washington, D.C., on February 1, 2026. Meanwhile, Mr. Mitchell Boyd will serve as Acting Director of the Curaçao Security Service.
On behalf of the government and the people of Curaçao, Prime Minister Pisas extended his best wishes to Mr. Beeldsnijder for success in his new mission representing the nation.

 CITED: https://gobiernu.cw/nl/nieuw/herintroductie-vertegenwoordiger-van-curacao-te-washington-d-c/