Addressing a joint press conference alongside Suriname Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva, Jaishankar described the discussions as comprehensive, covering trade, digital cooperation, investment, defence, energy, development assistance, healthcare, mobility, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
Calling the bilateral relationship deeply rooted in historical and community ties, Jaishankar stated that a challenging global environment required reliable partnerships and expressed confidence that the outcomes of the meeting would further strengthen the longstanding relationship between India and Suriname.
The External Affairs Minister outlined a six-point approach aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties, supporting Suriname’s development agenda, expanding defence cooperation, advancing development partnership projects, increasing trade and tourism, and sharing India’s expertise in digital technology and artificial intelligence.
“We have a deep and trusted relationship because it rests on the foundation of a strong people-to-people connection,” Jaishankar said during the media interaction.
Highlighting Suriname’s developmental ambitions, the minister referred to India’s earlier contributions, including transmission lines, water infrastructure upgrades and industrial support projects. He reaffirmed India’s willingness to extend new lines of credit for priority projects identified by the Surinamese government.
“We are open to offering new lines of credit for projects that the Suriname government deems important and appropriate,” he said.
Jaishankar also stressed the importance of defence and security cooperation, stating that India remained prepared to support the requirements of Suriname’s military and police forces, including capacity-building initiatives.
The minister highlighted ongoing development cooperation projects, including a passion fruit processing unit established under the India-CARICOM initiative. He also referred to early warning systems and community-based quick-impact projects implemented in partnership with international organisations.
“Under the India-UNDP programme, we have recently completed an early warning services delivery project in remote areas. We have, in addition, delivered on four quick-impact projects, with a fifth ready to go,” Jaishankar stated.
Emphasising India’s growing expertise in digital technologies and training programmes, the minister said both countries were entering a new phase shaped by artificial intelligence and technological advancement.
“In terms of capacity building, India has developed strengths and experiences. We are happy to share that this includes the range of digital practices and capabilities,” he said.
Jaishankar also underlined the broader alignment between the two nations, pointing to their shared commitment towards the Global South and cooperation across multilateral platforms, including the United Nations. He highlighted Suriname’s participation in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance as important pillars of bilateral engagement.
Following the Joint Commission Meeting, Jaishankar called on Suriname President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons and conveyed greetings from India’s leadership.
Later on Wednesday, the minister interacted with members of the Indian community in Suriname, highlighting India’s ongoing transformation and reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to supporting Suriname’s growth and prosperity.
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar paid tribute at the Monument for the Fallen Heroes in Mariënburg, honouring those who lost their lives during the 1902 uprising and remembering their contribution to the wider struggle against colonial rule.
Reflecting on the contribution of the indentured labour community, the External Affairs Minister said those who fought for dignity and freedom abroad represented a larger global struggle for liberty and justice that continued to inspire future generations.
Jaishankar is currently on a three-nation tour covering Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago from May 2 to May 10 as part of India’s diplomatic outreach to strengthen strategic and historical ties with Caribbean countries.
About The Author
Comment List