Netherlands and France sign treaty allowing cross-border pursuit of suspected drug smugglers near St. Maarten
PHILIPSBURG — The Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and authorities on Saint-Martin will now be able to pursue vessels suspected of drug smuggling into each other’s territorial waters. The arrangement follows the signing of a new treaty between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and France.
The agreement implements provisions of the San José Treaty, which aims to strengthen cooperation in the Caribbean in the fight against illegal drug trafficking.
According to the governments involved, the new implementing agreement removes several operational limitations and clarifies procedures for maritime counter-narcotics operations around Sint Maarten and Saint-Martin. The island is considered a transit route for drugs moving from South America toward North America and Europe.
Under the agreement, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard may pursue suspect vessels into the territorial waters surrounding both sides of the island under clearly defined conditions. The use of force remains excluded.
The treaty also sets out technical and operational rules governing cooperation between the authorities.
Step closer
The agreement was signed on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands by Luc Mercelina, while Naïma Moutchou signed on behalf of France. Officials describe the agreement as a step toward closer regional cooperation in tackling cross-border crime in the Caribbean.
