Surinamese President Jennifer Simons delivered an inspirational address during the Chinese New Year celebrations, emphasizing how the symbolic attributes of the Fire Horse should guide national development efforts. Speaking at the Chung Fa Foei Kon socio-cultural center, where she was accompanied by Vice President Gregory Rusland, President Simons articulated how the Fire Horse’s characteristics of strength, courage, perseverance, and progressiveness could inspire Suriname’s continued nation-building.
The presidential attendance marked a significant honor for the Chinese community, as noted by association chairman Liu Jianming, who interpreted their presence as demonstrating the high value placed on Chinese-Surinamese relations and underscoring the profound friendship between both peoples.
Chinese Ambassador Lin Ji highlighted the historical contributions of Chinese Surinamese, noting their 170-year legacy of fundamental contributions to socioeconomic progress and nation-building. Ambassador Ji emphasized that Chinese Surinamese have become ‘integral and indispensable’ to society while looking forward to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Suriname and China on May 28th this year.
Rudie Chin Jen Sem, vice-chairman of Chung Fa Foei Kon, expressed the community’s high expectations for the Fire Horse year and their commitment to realizing these aspirations. He simultaneously called for governmental vigor in addressing security and economic challenges.
President Simons drew powerful parallels between the Fire Horse’s symbolism and Suriname’s national journey: ‘A horse doesn’t stand still—it moves, pulls, and carries. Even in difficult circumstances. So too is Suriname: a country that despite challenges continues striving for development, justice, and prosperity.’
The president concluded with a rallying cry for collective effort: ‘Let the Year of the Fire Horse inspire us to face the future with courage, to work harder, share more fairly, and coexist with greater confidence. Let us harness the fire’s energy and the horse’s strength to fortify our economy, provide perspective for youth, and create a more just society.’