in this Section
PROTOCOL
Introductions
The Governor of Sint Maarten is the representative of the King on Sint Maarten. In connection with the performance of the function of the Governor certain protocol is to be followed. The protocol refers to, among others, forms of address, ceremony, and invitation rules for visits at or by the Governor.
Forms of Address
The Governor is greeted with Excellency and addressed in writing as His Excellency [Title, First name, Surname] the Governor of Sint Maarten. The salutation at the start of a letter to the Governor is also: Excellency,
The spouse of the Governor is greeted with Mrs. and addressed in writing as Mrs. [First name, Surname]. The salutation at the start of a letter to the spouse of the Governor is: Dear Mrs. [Surname]
Receptions
The Governor receives foreign and domestic guests on a regular basis. The Governor is accompanied and supported by his wife at several receptions. The receptions of the Governor are divided in:
- Official visits to Sint Maarten
- Audiences
- Dinners and luncheons
- Receptions (e.g. New Year, or King’s Day)
The receptions are hosted at various locations, amongst others, the Cabinet of the Governor at Falcon Drive 3, the residence of the Governor and a variety of locations selected based on theme.
The level of protocol and ceremony varies per occasion. It refers mainly to the rules to be followed at arrival, seating and for photographing.
Visits
The Governor makes local and foreign visits regularly. The Governor is accompanied by his wife at some of these visits. The visits of the Governor are divided in:
- Events
- Working Visits
- Official Foreign Visits
The Governor often visits events in the community in part to show support. The events range from: official openings, jubilees, cultural events, commemorations, or expositions. During working visits the Governor pays attention to specific and current issues in society. The foreign visits of the Governor have an official character. Examples in this regard include visits to French Saint Martin and other countries in the region.
The level of protocol and ceremony varies per occasion. It refers mainly to the rules to be followed at arrival, welcome ceremony, seating and departure.
Invitations
Invitations from the Governor to for a reception are strictly personal and non-transferable.
Invitations to the Governor and his wife must be submitted to the Cabinet of the Governor at least four weeks prior to the event along with a letter at Falcon Drive 3, Philipsburg, or by e-mail via address kabinet@kabgsxm.com. The letter should contain an explanation about the event with a program overview and some background information (including an explicit request in case you wish the Governor or his wife to do an opening, a speech or any other activity at your event). It is not correct to only send a print of the invitation.
Preparations
Visits of the Governor are prepared approximately 4 weeks in advance. The Aide de Camp to the Governor is involved in preparing the visits and receptions. He pre-visits the locations before the visit of the Governor to review the details of the visit. If you have any questions about the required protocol or any other topic related to the visits or receptions of the Governor, please contact the Aide de Camp to the Governor via mobile +1 721 587 8361, telephone +1 721 542 1160 or via e-mail adjudant@kabgsxm.com.