WILLEMSTAD, PARAMARIBO - Suriname's President Chandrikapersad Santokhi is set to make his first official visit to Aruba and Curaçao on October 21, with a key focus on enhancing cooperation in the oil and gas sectors. President Santokhi will be accompanied by First Lady Mellisa Santokhi-Seenacherry and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Albert Ramdin. The visit is regarded as a significant move to bolster relations between Suriname and the islands, while promoting joint economic growth.
Minister Ramdin highlighted the importance of the trip for Suriname. “We’ve worked diligently in recent years to strengthen our relationships. It is crucial to reaffirm our historical and cultural ties with Aruba and Curaçao, particularly in areas where we can grow together,” he stated. “There is great potential, especially in timber, oil, and gas.”
In the last decade, international energy companies have discovered several large oil fields in the Surinamese section of the Guyana-Suriname Basin. These finds present Suriname with a unique opportunity to boost and diversify its economy. By partnering with neighboring islands, Suriname can tap into shared expertise and infrastructure to maximize these resources.
The visit will also focus on improving trade relations, diplomatic discussions, and initiating joint projects within the energy sector. President Santokhi’s tour will begin in Aruba, followed by Curaçao, where he is scheduled to meet with the premiers of both islands. Key agreements will be signed to formalize cooperation in the oil and gas industry.
“We are committed to further developing both political and commercial ties,” Minister Ramdin emphasized. “This includes promoting the export of Surinamese energy products and exploring investment opportunities.” Discussions will center on Suriname's emerging oil and gas sector, while the delegation will also engage with business leaders on the islands to identify investment opportunities in Suriname.
Focus on Education and Healthcare
Beyond energy, the Surinamese delegation will also explore collaborations in healthcare and education. Minister Ramdin noted that parliamentary ties with Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten have already been strengthened. During this visit, further high-level meetings will take place to deepen mutual relations.
The Surinamese government places significant value on the Surinamese diaspora living in Aruba and Curaçao. “This group plays an important role in the social and economic dynamics between our countries,” Ramdin said. “President Santokhi’s visit not only reaffirms our historical connections but also marks a step toward a future of cooperation and economic diversification.”