In the wake of a deadly ferry disaster that claimed multiple lives and left others unaccounted for, the government of Suriname has officially conveyed its deep sympathy to neighboring Guyana following the capsizing of the MV Barima on Saturday evening.
Suriname’s President Jennifer Simons delivered the message of condolence on behalf of the country’s government and people, while Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation Melvin Bouva has formally extended an offer of assistance to Guyana amid its ongoing rescue operations.
In an official statement, the Surinamese government confirmed it learned of the tragic incident, which saw the passenger and crew-carrying MV Barima capsize in local waters, with profound sorrow. President Simons extended her sincerest condolences to the government and people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, directing particular words of comfort to the bereaved families of the confirmed victims, the relatives of those still missing, and every community and individual impacted by the maritime disaster.
Minister Bouva has already held direct communications with his Guyanese counterpart Hugh Todd. During the conversation, he not only reiterated Suriname’s collective sympathy for the tragedy but also formally stated Suriname’s readiness to deploy any required support to Guyana’s response efforts as search operations continue.
As Guyana’s search and rescue teams press ahead with operations to locate additional survivors, the Surinamese government has emphasized it holds out hope that as many people on board the capsized ferry as possible will be recovered safely.
As a close neighboring nation and a fellow partner within the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Suriname has underlined its unwavering solidarity with Guyana throughout this difficult period of crisis and recovery.