President Irfaan Ali and his Surinamese counterpart, Dr. Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, met in Nieuw Nickerie, Suriname today and reviewed the state of bilateral relations and to advance discussion on areas of mutual interest between the two countries.

The two sides discussed a range of issues including economic cooperation, energy and energy security, and the new Corentyne River Bridge.

In a joint statement issued following the meeting, it was explained that the two Heads of state, expressed their mutual commitment to further deepen the bilateral partnership to promote peace, security, and prosperity for the two countries. They have expressed their willingness and interest to deepen economic cooperation and to implement joint ventures in areas of mutual interest with the focus on expanding trade, investment, and the improvement of the ease of doing business.

“The Presidents acknowledged the strategic importance of energy security to national and regional development. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in the oil and gas sector, as well as in renewable energy and electricity interconnection. The two sides committed to exploring joint ventures, knowledge-sharing mechanisms, and investment opportunities that would advance their respective national energy agendas while contributing to regional energy resilience,” the joint statement read.

As it relates to the bridge between Suriname and Guyana over the Corentyne River, they have  agreed to continue close coordination to address outstanding legal, technical and financial matters before the commencement of construction. The two sides also agreed to review the current ferry service and discuss expanding regional sea travel.

The two countries have agreed to work continuously to resolve the ongoing border controversy in keeping with international law. A meeting of the joint border commission is expected to be convened before the end of the year.

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintain the Region as a Zone of Peace through dialogue, diplomacy, peaceful resolution of conflicts in accordance with international law. They also restated their support for all constructive efforts aimed at combating transnational crimes

As it relates to Agriculture and fisheries, both countries have agreed to establish a joint commission comprising of the Ministers responsible for Fisheries, technical teams and relevant stakeholders before the end of 2025 to further advance cooperation in fisheries and work to advance Agriculture.

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