St.
Maarten is the smallest Island in the world to be shared by
two sovereign governments-namely the Dutch and French. The Dutch
side, with Philipsburg as its capital occupies the southern 17
square miles of this 37-square-mile island; St. Martin, a French
dependency, occupies the northern half. The dual nationality adds
variety to this most unique of island gems in the Caribbean Sea.
Both Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin have maintained a
peaceful coexistence for over 350 years, the longest of any two
bordering nations. The two territories have enjoyed harmonious
relations through their history and have shared the prosperity of
many years without dispute. The Treaty of Concordia executed on
March 23rd 1648 established this coexistence and has the unique
distinction of being the oldest Treaty still in force today.
As part
of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dutch St. Maarten is both
politically and economically stable. The territory is not only a
safe and pleasant place to do business, but also to establish roots
and raise a family. The total population has grown from 13,156 in
1980 to nearly 39,000 in year 2000. It is estimated that the
population of St. Maarten consists of 86 different nationalities.
The native languages are English and Dutch.
St. Maarten
has an excellent seaport and airport, which makes the island very
attractive as a hub. Government is presently in the process of a
major road enhancement project, which includes the construction of
new roads, the re-paving of existing roads, the implementation of
roundabouts and traffic lights.
St. Maarten
has a modern and up-to-date telecommunication system with 3
companies offering telephone services and cellular phone services.
St. Maarten also boasts several Internet providers and a cable TV
company that offers over 50 different channels. Electricity and
water is produced and distributed on the island by Government
controlled agencies.