President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell says there are many benefits for Sint Maarten joining the Latin American Parliament (Parlatino), a regional, permanent and unicameral organization, comprising the National Latin American Parliaments elected democratically upon popular vote. Parlatino was created on December 7, 1964.
On Tuesday the Central Committee of Parliament discussed the proposal of the Parliament of Sint Maarten becoming a member.
"Some of the core principles that Sint Maarten stands for is defence of democracy, non-intervention, self-determination of nations, legal equality of States, the rejection to threat and to the use of force against the political independence and territorial integrity of any State, the peaceful, fair and negotiated solution of international conflicts," the President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell pointed out on Tuesday.
The purpose of Parlatino is to promote, human rights, and economic and social development; to maintain and foster relations with other geographic parliaments, as well as international organizations; and to defend against imperialism and colonialism.
"Our island nation already has a business relationship with Brazil, Argentina and Panama with respect to the promotion of tourism. Our membership in Parlatino can only be strengthened and can lead to the further development of other areas of trade.
"Having a close working relationship by being a member of Parlatino and its various permanent committees will allow us to exchange ideas and learn from each other based on our experiences. This will also further strengthen relations and open up possibilities and opportunities in various areas," Arrindell added.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten is scheduled to handle the membership advice for Parlatino in a public session on Wednesday, November 24 at 2.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.