Guyana, Suriname unity presents tremendous opportunities – Min Todd

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Hugh Todd says the bond formed between Guyana and Suriname positions Guyanese to benefit from tremendous opportunities. 

This comes on the heels of the His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s November visit to Suriname and the signing of the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform between the two countries.

The Minister made the remarks during an interview for DPI’s ‘The Progress Report’ on Wednesday. 

Minister Todd said both Presidents recognise the importance of partnership and the opportunities that can be taken advantage of if there is unity between Guyana and Suriname.

“The Strategic Dialogue and Co-operation Platform was an achievement for the people of Guyana and the people of Suriname. What it has done is provide an umbrella framework where we can advance our mutual interest,” the Minister said.

Guyana and Suriname are members of CARICOM and Forum for the Progress and Integration of South America (PROSUR). With that, Minister Todd noted that the neighbours’ unity is not limited to the bilateral perspective.

He said President Ali wants to put Guyana on the regional platform by connecting the Guianas Shield. The Minister added that the platform would allow both countries to capitalise on opportunities on the continent, CARICOM, and in organisations such as the Organization of American States (OAS).

“We have French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana and Brazil, so that connectivity opens up a huge economic space for both Guyana and Suriname which is very important for progress and for future prospects,” Minister Todd stated.

“Brazil is looking on because northern Brazil is unlocked, they are looking for access to our Atlantic so that they can have access to markets and it is a very good time to be a part of this process,” the International Cooperation Minister added.

One of the major initiatives is the bridging of the Corentyne River which will create endless opportunities for the two countries. The cooperation platform caters for every sector, including education, security, transport and trade.

During his visit to Suriname, President Ali announced a ‘Guyana/Suriname Business Facilitation Unit.’ Dr. Ali said the Unit’s objective is to cushion the effects of the pandemic on both countries and ensure their economies are not left behind post-COVID-19.

Additionally, Guyana and Suriname are working to broaden connectivity and tap into new and existing markets after inking an Open Skies Agreement earlier this month.

Guyana and Suriname established diplomatic ties on November 25, 1975.