Gov’t to ramp up diplomatic action over Suriname river charges – President Ali

President Mohamed Irfaan Ali says the government is stepping up efforts to address concerns over Suriname’s proposed charges for use of the Corentyne River.

The president said the matter is receiving high-level attention and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is fully engaged.

“We will be increasing our advocacy in the coming days to have this matter resolved,” he stated on Wednesday while speaking with reporters on the sidelines of an event at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

President Ali told informed reporters that the matter is being handled by the foreign affairs ministry through diplomatic channels.

Concerns have grown over the possible impact of the charges, which could affect trade and long-standing arrangements between the two countries.

President Ali has warned that such measures may create barriers to business and weaken investor confidence.

Engagements between the two sides are ongoing, with Suriname’s Foreign Minister, Melvin Bouva, having discussions with Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud.

The president also stressed the importance of strong bilateral relations, noting that Surinamese businesses have long operated freely in Guyana. Reciprocity, he said, must remain a guiding principle.