Statia, Saba, and Bonaire strengthen regional cooperation through protocol training

Twenty-four professionals from Statia, Saba, and Bonaire completed a three-day training program on protocol and etiquette held in Statia from August 25 to 27. The initiative aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and professional standards regarding official representation, government communication, and diplomatic etiquette within the Caribbean Netherlands.

Led by Bengt-Arne Hulleman of the Hague-based Protocolbureau, the training covered national symbols, precedence, seating arrangements, and managing interactions with dignitaries. The program included practical scenarios to prepare officials for upcoming major events, such as Statia Day 2026 and the 250th anniversary of the ‘First Salute’.

The event concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Saba and Statia, signed by Island Governors Jocelyn Levenstone and Alida Francis. This agreement establishes a framework for closer cooperation in public information, media relations, crisis communication, and ceremonial affairs, while facilitating professional knowledge exchange and mutual assistance during large-scale events.