GREAT BAY--Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina delivered a message of unity, purpose, and forward-looking resolve during the solemn sitting of Parliament on Monday, October 13, 2025, marking Constitution Day 2025. In his address, the Prime Minister reflected on the resilience of the St. Maarten people through economic and social transformation, while outlining his vision for the nation’s next chapter, one rooted in sustainability, equity, and collective strength.
“Through economic challenges and social transformation, the spirit of St. Maarten has not faltered, it has strengthened,” Prime Minister Mercelina said. “Our journey has not gotten easy, but it has been purposeful.”
He emphasized that nation building is an ongoing responsibility, not a fixed point in time. “We have learned that nation building is not a destination; it is a daily commitment,” he stated. “It is in the policies we craft, the partnerships we build, and the people we uplift.”
Mercelina described how this commitment is reflected in every part of society, from classrooms to clinics, from government offices to private citizens. “It is in the classrooms where our teachers mold young minds, in the hospitals where compassion meets care, and in the hard work of every public servant,” he said. “It is in every owner and citizen who contributes to the nation’s progress.”
As the country commemorates 15 years of constitutional status, Prime Minister Mercelina encouraged St. Maarten to look beyond reflection toward action and shared vision. “We must also look forward to the St. Maarten we are building toward,” he said.
He outlined a clear framework for the nation’s future:
• “A St. Maarten that is energy secure, where we turn our natural challenges into sustainable opportunities.”
• “A St. Maarten that is economically diverse, reducing vulnerability and fostering innovation.”
• “A St. Maarten that is socially just, where prosperity is shared and every voice is valued.”
• “And above all, a St. Maarten that stands united, not just by geography, but by purpose.”
Mercelina called on the people to continue the country’s journey with renewed determination, learning from experience and inspired by possibility. “Let us continue this journey guided by the lessons of our past and inspired by the limitless potential of our people,” he said.
He urged that the next 15 years of St. Maarten’s development must be shaped by three defining values: courage, collaboration, and compassion. “The next 15 years must be defined by courage, collaboration, and compassion so that the promise of 10/10/10 continues to live in every generation to come,” he said.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Mercelina reaffirmed his belief in the enduring strength of the St. Maarten people. “May we move forward with conviction,” he said, “knowing that our greatest strength lies not in our size, but in our unity and our will to progress.”
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