France and Netherlands Establish Maritime Pursuit Rights Near Saint-Martin

On March 11, 2026, the French Minister of Overseas Territories, Naïma Moutchou, signed an agreement with Dutch authorities in Sint Maarten to establish mutual rights of maritime pursuit in the waters surrounding the island of Saint-Martin.

This agreement allows law enforcement agencies from both France and the Netherlands to pursue vessels suspected of illegal activities, such as drug trafficking or illegal fishing, into each other's territorial waters. The initiative aims to enhance cooperation in combating maritime crimes that exploit the proximity of the two jurisdictions.

Minister Moutchou emphasized the necessity of this agreement, stating, "Around Saint-Martin, fast boats seek to evade interceptions by crossing maritime boundaries within minutes. This reality undermines our efforts and fosters insecurity."

The accord is expected to strengthen the enforcement capabilities of both nations, ensuring that criminals cannot exploit jurisdictional boundaries to evade capture. It also reflects a commitment to regional security and the rule of law, addressing the unique challenges posed by the island's divided sovereignty.

Residents and maritime operators in the region are advised to be aware of the new enforcement measures and the increased presence of law enforcement vessels in the area. The agreement underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational crimes and maintaining maritime security.