Stating that the future of the economies of Guyana and Suriname is intertwined, President Irfaan Ali has urged that advantage be taken of the synergies and complementarities to deepen integration.
In a message yesterday to Suriname’s National Assembly in Paramaribo on the 45th anniversary of that country’s independence, Ali also played up the importance of democracy.
“Both Guyana and Suriname held elections this year. Both governments were elected. Democracy remains the strongest ally for development. It allows our electorates to hold their governments accountable. Guyana looks forward to working with Suriname to ensure greater respect for democratic norms and values.
“Democracy helps to unlock the latent potential of our economies and to boost investor confidence. Indeed, Guyana and Suriname are totally perched to benefit from accelerated growth and development, not only through the exploitation of our natural resources but through the abundant potential that lies in agriculture, value added, tourism and expanded trade. The attention these resources now attract should make all of us even more thankful for the achievement of political Independence. Investors and entrepreneurs are now knocking at our doors, more eager than ever to do business”, he said.
Ali, who is on a state visit to the neighbouring country, pledged his government’s support to working with Suriname for enhanced cooperation.
“The future of our economies are intertwined. I believe we should seize this special period, to strengthen our bilateral relations. We have a golden opportunity to begin to dismantle the impediments through bilateral trade – especially if there are no legal obstructions. We should take advantage of both the synergies and complementarities of our economies to deepen economic and social integration” Ali contended.
Noting their membership of CARICOM, Ali said that the 45th anniversary celebration comes at a time for both states to take the lead in demonstrating the efficacy of regional integration.
“Together we can meet and fulfill a great proportion of the food needs within the Caribbean Community, Ali said in the presence of the Surinamese President Chan Santokhi and Dutch Foreign Minis-ter Stef Blok among a host of other dignitaries.
As Suriname celebrates and enters into the 46th year of its independence and as Guyana prepares to celebrate its 55th year of independence next year, Ali said he believes that both countries should create a dedicated pathway that would deepen economic and social cooperation. He said his government is prepared to exert its energies in working with the Paramaribo government on the creation of such a plan.
Ali, whose visit has seen a MoU for a bridge over the Corentyne River, also lauded the friendly ties he has with the Suriname President.
“… today I must also herald the brotherly bond and friendship between myself and His Excellency President Santokhi. We feel at home here in Suriname. In congratulating Suriname on the 45th anniversary of its Independence, allow me to salute the people of your country for fashioning a multicultural society which respects diversity”, Ali stated.
