PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — The President of Parliament extended condolences to the family and friends of the late President of the Collectivité Aline Hanson in a statement.
“More than anything, she believed in our island and its people.”
“It is with immense sadness that I direct myself to you, the family and friends of the late Aline Hanson and the community of French St. Martin at large, extending my heartfelt condolences.
“Aline has left an indelible mark in the political, social and educational tapestries of our island and I am proud to call her my friend, one who believed in the uniqueness of our dual island and its people, and went about her responsibilities is a humble and dedicated manner.
“In my former capacity as Prime Minister, I worked very closely with Aline and experienced her to stand very strong for what she believed in. Her humble demeanor would vanish only when she needed to exert her authority as a leader.
“We shared many a laughter, as well as our concerns for the future of our beloved island. I admired her strength, as despite her illness, she pushed forward for as long as she humanly could.
“May God grant us all the strength to cope with this loss and to her family: Aline did her part and fought a good fight. May you be comforted in the legacy she left behind. RIP, Madame President.”
