PHILIPSBURG – The Kingdom of the Netherlands and France have signed a new treaty allowing coast guard vessels to pursue suspected drug trafficking boats across territorial waters around the island of Sint Maarten and Saint-Martin.
The agreement allows the Caribbean Coast Guard and the coast guard of Saint-Martin to continue pursuing vessels suspected of drug smuggling even when they cross into each other’s territorial waters. The treaty was signed yesterday and aims to strengthen regional cooperation in the fight against narcotics trafficking.
The arrangement implements the San José Treaty, an international agreement designed to enhance collaboration in the Caribbean in combating illegal drug trade. According to officials, the new implementing treaty removes several operational limitations and uncertainties that previously complicated maritime counter-drug operations around the divided island.
Sint Maarten and the French territory of Saint-Martin are considered an important transit point for narcotics transported from South America to markets in North America and Europe. Authorities say this makes closer and more transparent cooperation between the two sides of the island essential.
The agreement clarifies the conditions under which the Caribbean Coast Guard may pursue vessels in the territorial waters of both Sint Maarten and Saint-Martin. The use of force during such pursuits remains prohibited. In addition, the treaty includes technical and operational provisions governing how joint activities will be carried out.
Prime Minister Luc Mercelina of Sint Maarten signed the treaty on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, while France was represented by Naïma Moutchou, Minister for Overseas Territories.
Officials described France as an important partner for the Kingdom in the Caribbean region. The agreement is seen as a significant step in tackling cross-border criminal activity and strengthening security cooperation in the region.