At the UNIDO General Conference in Riyadh, Suriname’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation Andrew Baasaron presented his nation as an emerging strategic partner for countries and corporations investing in sustainable maritime development. Rather than focusing on national policy measures, Minister Baasaron emphasized Suriname’s blue economy as a collaborative zone where foreign expertise, regional innovation, and local entrepreneurship could mutually reinforce one another.
The minister extended formal invitations to businesses, research centers, and multilateral institutions to establish partnerships with Suriname that combine economic growth with environmental conservation. He specifically highlighted opportunities in marine and riverine biodiversity applications, noting potential in novel biotechnological concepts ranging from pharmaceutical extracts to sustainable biomaterials.
Suriname seeks to modernize its fisheries sector through partners who can introduce advanced systems, traceability technologies, and international best practices. This modernization effort aims to meet global sustainability standards while maintaining market access. Similarly, the aquaculture sector welcomes joint ventures developing innovative, environmentally friendly production models focused on high-value species with low ecosystem impact.
The minister also outlined ambitions for eco- and river-tourism, inviting investment in nature-friendly tourist infrastructure that positions local communities—including Indigenous and Tribal peoples—as full economic participants rather than mere stakeholders.
Infrastructure modernization formed another key pillar, with Suriname seeking technical and financial partners for digitalization, climate-resilient port facilities, and restoration of natural defenses like mangroves. Minister Baasaron concluded by framing Suriname’s blue economy as an international agenda—a framework for partnerships that help build a carbon-neutral, resilient economy while establishing Suriname as a proactive regional player connecting innovation, sustainability, and economic progress through oceanic and riverine resources.