Suriname, represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation Melvin Bouva, emphasized the importance of deepening the CELAC-EU partnership and maintaining regular dialogue on shared challenges such as climate change, security, and peace. Speaking at the fourth CELAC-EU Summit of Heads of State and Government held on November 9, 2025, in Santa Marta, Colombia, Bouva called for enhanced trade relations and improved movement of people and goods between the two regions. The summit, organized by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the European Union (EU), brought together leaders from 27 EU member states and 33 CELAC countries. Bouva highlighted the summit as a pivotal moment to strengthen long-standing cooperation based on shared interests and historical economic, social, and cultural ties. He expressed concern over rising tensions in the Caribbean and firmly opposed any external military presence that could threaten regional stability. As a member of CARICOM, Suriname advocated for peaceful coexistence, closer regional collaboration, and adherence to the principle of non-interference. The government remains committed to maintaining peace and security in alignment with the UN Charter. Bouva also noted Suriname’s focus on sustainable growth, strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations, and promoting economic and climate diplomacy as the country approaches its 50th independence anniversary on November 25, 2025. He highlighted Suriname’s unique position as one of the world’s most forested nations, with over 90% of its territory covered by forests, absorbing more carbon than it emits. Bouva urged high-emission countries to take responsibility by compensating nations like Suriname for their contributions to forest conservation. Additionally, Suriname stressed the need for improved access to climate financing and expressed support for the renewed CELAC-EU Roadmap 2025–2027, aimed at deepening bi-regional cooperation between Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe in the pursuit of partnership and peace.