The Government of St. Eustatius (Statia) had the pleasure of receiving Mr. Thom de Graaf, Vice-President of the Council of State (Raad van State), for an official farewell visit to the island. Mr. de Graaf and his delegation were warmly welcomed at F.D. Roosevelt Airport by Acting Government Commissioner, Sharon Hassell.
Mr. de Graaf’s itinerary focused on the transformative projects currently shaping the island. The visit provided an opportunity to receive high-level updates on critical infrastructure and heritage sites:
- Infrastructure: Representatives from the Project & Program Management Office (PPMO), Casper Jorna and Martijn Voorham, provided on-site explanations regarding the progress of the Cliff Project and the extensive renovation of the Harbor.
- Culture and History: The delegation enjoyed a guided tour of the historic Fort Oranje, led by Region Deal Program Manager Raimie Richardson, highlighting the island’s commitment to preserving its rich history.
- Governance: The afternoon concluded at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), where the delegation held productive dialogues with both the Island Council and the Executive Council.
Having last visited the island in March 2025 to review housing and road projects, Mr. de Graaf remains well-acquainted with Statia’s unique challenges and triumphs. During a formal reception in his honor, Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam shared well-wishes on behalf of the government, and Acting Government Commissioner Sharon Hassell presented a special gift as a token of appreciation for his service and long-standing relationship with the island.