PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliament has unanimously approved the appointment of Member of Parliament Francisco A. Lacroes as First Vice Chairman of the Committee on Economic Affairs, Social Debt and Regional Development of the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino).
The appointment follows a decision by Parlatino’s Board of Directors, which approved Sint Maarten's appointment to the First Vice Presidency of the committee. Parliament was informed of the decision through official correspondence from Parlatino President Rolando González Patricio, dated November 26 of last year.
According to discussions held within Parliament’s Committee on Parlatino Matters, the proposal was reviewed during a meeting on March 4, 2026. The committee subsequently forwarded its recommendations to the Central Committee, which considered the matter on April 22 and issued advice for final approval by the public meeting of Parliament.
During the parliamentary debate, MP Lacroes expressed gratitude for the nomination and highlighted its significance.
“It is an honor to actually be nominated for this position,” Lacroes stated. He emphasized that the appointment reflects Parlatino’s recognition of Sint Maarten Parliament’s dedication, participation, and contributions to regional parliamentary affairs.
La Cruz noted that the achievement demonstrates the work Parliament has invested in strengthening its role within Parlatino and advancing legislative cooperation across the region.
The MP also referenced ongoing collaboration between Parliament and government ministries on legislative initiatives originating from Parlatino, underscoring the importance of all members' continued participation in the regional organization.
Following the brief discussion, no further intervention was requested by Members of Parliament. The proposal was then put forward for approval and was accepted unanimously.
With the decision, Parliament will formally notify Parlatino of Lacroes’s appointment as First Vice Chairman, further strengthening Sint Maarten’s representation within the regional parliamentary body.
Parlatino, the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament, is a permanent regional institution that promotes integration, cooperation, and legislative dialogue among member states across Latin America and the Caribbean.
