WILLEMSTAD – Over the past two weeks, a commanding officer from the Suriname Coast Guard (KWS) and a representative from the Surinamese Navy’s corporate security bureau visited Curaçao for a working exchange with the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard (KWCARIB) and the Caribbean Naval Command (CZMCARIB). 

Observing Maritime Training Operations 

As observers, the Surinamese officials closely followed training and assessments for multiple maritime units. They witnessed crew exercises aboard HNLMS Pelikaan, the KWCARIB cutter JAGUAR, and several KWCARIB Metal Shark patrol boats. 

Additionally, the visitors made a brief stop aboard the HNLMS Groningen, gaining valuable insights into how Curaçao's naval and coast guard forces prepare and maintain operational readiness in an environment similar to that of Suriname. 

Strengthening Regional Maritime Cooperation 

The Dutch Navy regularly conducts specialized training to ensure that crews and vessels are ready for deployment in maritime law enforcement and defense operations. Discussions are ongoing to explore ways to continue supporting Suriname’s coast guard and navy, in alignment with the Netherlands’ strategic interest in enhancing maritime security in the Caribbean region. 

This working visit is part of the renewed cooperation between the Surinamese Coast Guard and Navy and their Dutch and Caribbean counterparts in Curaçao, focusing on operational readiness and capacity building, according to the Dutch Caribbean Defense Command.