Appointment of new Governor and Prime Minister of St. Maarten ‘an historic milestone’ says PM Douglas

New St. Maarten Governor His Excellency Dr. Eugene Holiday (left) congratulates St. Maarten’s First Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams shortly after she was sworn in on October 10. President of Parliament, the Hon. Gracita Arrindell (seated at far left) applauds (photo courtesy The Daily Herald, St. Maarten)

ST. KITTS, OCTOBER 21, 2010 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas says the recent appointment of His Excellency Mr. Eugene B. Holiday and the Hon. Sarah Wescott-Williams as Governor and Prime Minister respectively of Country St. Maarten as an “historical milestone.”

In separate letters of congratulations, Prime Minister Douglas told the new St. Maarten Governor that the challenges ahead for the new country are immense, “but not insurmountable as the vision of the new leaders of good governance, transparency and equality for all are shared ideals of your neighbours.”

“You have been appointed to serve in this high capacity for such a time when the effects of the global economic meltdown lingers,” said Prime Minister Douglas.

He told Governor Holiday that he hoped that as Queen’s Beatrix’s representative in St Maarten, “we can continue to enjoy good and friendly relations, a partnership which, over the years has reaped benefits on both sides.”

“My Government is committed to maintaining and strengthening this relationship. I anticipate future dialogue between our two governments on areas in which we can continue to cooperate,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who used the opportunity to commend Governor Holiday on his achievements over the years.

He wished Governor Holiday “continued success throughout your tenure and prosperity and peace for Country St Maarten.”

Dr. Douglas in his message to the new Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten noted that the achievement is as a result of a constitutional status approved via a referendum 10 years ago.

“The significance of this momentous occasion symbolically marks the end of one era and the birth of another as you transition into an independent country with the Dutch Kingdom. I am confident that with you at the helm, St Maarten will continue on a path of prosperity and growth out of the present economic crisis,” said Prime Minister Douglas.

“We have a common heritage in our people. Your country has been a haven for persons from many parts of the world and I am cognizant that many nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis frequent your shores to visit with relatives or for business or recreation,” said the St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, who was of the firm conviction “that the deep bonds of friendship which we have long enjoyed will be further strengthened even as you attain increased autonomy within the Kingdom.”