…cooperation to be strengthened on food, energy, border security
Guyana and Suriname have recommitted to strengthening bilateral cooperation in a number of areas ranging from food security, energy security and border security with the aim of fostering economic development in the two countries and prosperity for their peoples.
These pledges were made by Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Gail Teixeira, and Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal, at a reception on Saturday evening in Georgetown. The event was held to celebrate both the 49th anniversary of Suriname’s Independence and the establishment of diplomat ties between the two neighbouring countries.
Speaking at the reception, Minister Teixeira reflected on the deep bonds that Guyana and Suriname share and underscored the need for strengthening bilateral cooperation especially under the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform that was established by Presidents Dr Irfaan Ali and his Surinamese counterpart, President Chandrikapersad Santohki, four years ago.
According to Guyanese Minister, combined wealth of arable lands and abundant fresh water has positioned the two nations to not only meet the food demands of their own populations but also significantly contribute to the food security of other Caribbean states. “By optimizing agriculture production and investing in agro-processing and distribution networks, our countries can become the breadbasket of the Caribbean, reducing dependence on imports and ensuring sustainable food systems in the region,” she stated.
Teixeira added that Guyana and Suriname can also work together to responsibly monetise their rich forest and biodiversity, leveraging these resources for sustainable development while still maintaining their critical role in reducing the global greenhouse gas emissions. By pursuing joint initiatives in conservations and eco-tourism, she said the two countries can enhance efforts in climate adaptation and mitigation, ensuring that their natural heritage continues to benefit future generations.
Similarly, the minister also believes that the South American neighbours have a historic opportunity to collaborate on joint ventures and forge economic partnerships in the oil and gas sector. “Beyond petroleum, there is immense potential to work together on renewable energy projects and energy trading to ensure cleaner, more affordable energy solutions for both nations. By combining our expertise and resources, we build a resilient energy future that benefits not just our people but the wider region,” she noted.
Moreover, Teixeira highlighted that Guyana and Suriname can set a powerful example of regional cooperation, leveraging their shared strengthens to address global challenges such as transnational crime. She underscored the importance of cooperation between the two countries to effectively combat crime particularly in the region, where the transnational trade in narcotics, human trafficking and contraband.
“Criminal networks can exploit poorly managed borders, threatening our national security. By strengthening collaboration including intelligence-sharing, our two nations can dismantle these illicit operations. As neighbours with shared responsibility of upholding the rule of law, Guyana and Suriname must work hand in hand to ensure that transnational crime must not hindered the development and prosperity of our nations or that fugitives does not find refuge in our countries,” the minister posited.
Meanwhile, similar sentiments were echoed by the Surinamese Ambassador, who also recognised the deep historical and cultural ties that have been cultivated over decades between the two nations.
“Both countries have walked similar paths shaped by our rich natural resources, diverse cultures and resilient peoples. This common journey was instrumental in laying a strong foundation for the robust bilateral relationship we enjoy today,” she stated.
Blankendal too acknowledged the need to continue strengthening the ties between Guyana and Suriname. She lauded the establishment of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce as a catalyst for enhancing bilateral trade and investments between the two countries. This, according to the Surinamese diplomat, will be further enhanced with the construction of bridge across the Corentyne River, which will not only foster greater movement of goods and people but also strengthen economic and cultural ties.
“The bridge, furthermore, symbolizes a vital investment in connectivity and economic integration, paving the way for seamless cross-border trade and regional cooperation, making our region even more attractive for investments. In the near future, we will reap the fruits of this project,” the Ambassador stated.
Moreover, Blankendal also outlined the scope for cooperation in other areas that are geared towards the sustainable development of both nations. She said as carbon-negative countries with unique biodiversity, Guyana and Suriname can work together to have a unique eco-tourism destination unlike anywhere in the world. (G8)
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