CURAÇAO/PHILIPSBURG:--- – Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina emphasized the urgent need for Caribbean nations to collaborate on climate change and energy challenges at the Caribbean Climate and Energy Conference 2025. The event, hosted by Curaçao in partnership with the Netherlands' Ministry of Economic Affairs, Climate Policy, and Green Growth, signaled a pivotal moment for the region to take collective action on sustainability.
"This high-level conference is a call to action, mobilizing knowledge, funding, and collaboration to safeguard our islands and strengthen the Caribbean's voice on the global climate agenda," Mercelina stated in his address.
Regional Collaboration and Key Discussions
During the conference, Mercelina held productive meetings with the Prime Ministers of Curaçao and Aruba, Gelmar Pisas and Mike Amann, respectively, to discuss shared priorities, including disaster preparedness, regional cooperation, and the development of a sustainable economy. Mercelina highlighted the importance of unity and the role of regional partnerships in addressing the unique challenges faced by Caribbean nations.
"The discussions with Prime Minister Pisas and Prime Minister Amann were invaluable in aligning strategies for sustainable economic growth and disaster resilience. Working together strengthens our capacity to tackle the challenges posed by climate change," Mercelina remarked.
Alongside regional leaders, the Prime Minister also explored avenues for advancing renewable energy solutions in Sint Maarten, drawing from best practices discussed at the conference. These initiatives aim to mitigate energy costs for citizens while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Highlighting the Importance of Climate Action
Mercelina underscored that climate change remains an existential threat to low-lying island nations like Sint Maarten. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation demand immediate action. He called for "fostering resilience through smart investments and policy reforms" to build a sustainable future for the island.
"Our participation in this conference reinforces Sint Maarten's commitment to the Paris Agreement and the global climate agenda. We must prioritize decarbonization and sustainable development for the well-being of our people and our natural resources," he said.
Outlook for Sustainable Energy and Financing
Throughout the conference, panel discussions emphasized the significance of green financing platforms in supporting climate initiatives in small island states. Mercelina indicated that Sint Maarten would advocate for greater access to these resources to ensure that long-term sustainability projects can be executed effectively.
"We must mobilize funding and technical expertise to implement renewable energy solutions that lessen the burden on our economy and people. It is not only a matter of economics but also social and environmental survival," the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister concluded his engagement by emphasizing that Sint Maarten will maintain active engagement with regional and global stakeholders, ensuring that the Caribbean remains a part of the broader solution to combating climate change.
By uniting regional efforts and prioritizing inclusive, green growth, Sint Maarten aims to lead by example, securing a livable and sustainable environment for future generations.
