PARAMARIBO – In a significant diplomatic engagement, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands were formally received by Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons at the Presidential Palace on Monday morning. The royal visit, which marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, included an extensive Dutch delegation comprising four ministers and senior officials.
The arrival ceremony featured a full military honor guard, with both the Dutch and Surinamese national anthems performed—a symbolic gesture underscoring mutual respect between the two nations. Following protocol, schoolchildren presented ceremonial greetings to the distinguished guests, after which official photographs were captured on the palace steps.
A private meeting ensued between President Simons, her spouse Glenn Geerlings, and the Dutch royal couple. This was followed by a traditional exchange of gifts and the signing of the Republic of Suriname’s guestbook by the Dutch delegation.
The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation, with several agreements scheduled for formal signing later in the day. Both delegations are expected to issue a joint press statement outlining the concrete outcomes of these diplomatic talks, which aim to foster deeper political and economic collaboration between Suriname and the Netherlands.