As regards the situation of Argentine citizens in St. Maarten Island (Netherlands), the Argentine Foreign Ministry informs that:
Today, members of the Dutch army have been deployed on the island to maintain order, assess damage and provide assistance in this emergency.
St Maarten airport is unfortunately not working. Planes are expected to land in the coming days, as long as climate conditions permitting operations are restored.
Copa Airlines, which has flown many Argentine tourists to the island, has set up a crisis committee to send a charter flight so as to help affected citizens return to Argentina.
The Argentine consular authorities are working with their Dutch and French counterparts in order to find a solution for the situation of the Argentine citizens concerned, prioritizing assistance for sick and elderly people.
The Argentine consular authorities are undertaking the necessary actions to assist Argentine nationals, by providing them with support and information on the steps to be followed in order to leave the island that has been so tragically affected by Hurricane Irma.
The Argentine Foreign Ministry wishes to assure the families of the tourists in the area that the authorities are working to assist them in this emergency and to find solutions to help them overcome the harsh moment they have undergone.
Press release No. 381/17
Press Office: 4819-7375 / 8296 / 7388
@CancilleriaARG