Her Majesty Queen Beatrix’s declaration that she will abdicate in favor of Crown Prince Willem-Alexander on April 30 next made a great impression. As her representative in our young country I express my highest appreciation to Queen Beatrix for the exceptional way in which she gave content to the Kingship throughout the Kingdom. Through her wisdom, strength and profound interest in everyone she came into contact with, she nurtured and embodied a special bond with the people, as evidence during her most recent visit to Sint Maarten in November 2011. Having listened to her declaration I feel assured of her continued involvement for the people and at the same time look forward with confidence to welcoming the Crown Prince Willem-Alexander as future King and princes Maxima as future Queen.