During the extraordinary public session of the National Assembly convened for the state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, opposition leader Rabin Parmessar of the National Democratic Party (NDP) articulated a vision for fundamentally transforming Suriname’s relationship with the Netherlands. The political leader emphasized the necessity of establishing a mature, business-oriented partnership characterized by mutual reinforcement rather than dependency.
Parmessar presented a comprehensive framework for bilateral cooperation spanning multiple sectors including trade, investments, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and sustainable energy. He asserted that Suriname stands prepared to actively leverage these opportunities through pragmatic collaboration that delivers economic and social advancement for both nations.
The most pressing issue addressed was the Netherlands’ current visa policy toward Surinamese citizens. Parmessar characterized the existing application procedures as unnecessarily burdensome and frequently inhumane, calling for immediate revision. He argued that such practices contradict the fundamental principles of respect and equality that should define the bilateral relationship, presenting the royal visit as an opportune moment to address these concerns openly and concretely.
The opposition leader reiterated his party’s consistent stance against external interference while emphasizing the protection of national interests. He maintained that Suriname must engage in international partnerships from a position of strength and self-confidence rather than dependency.
Concluding his address, Parmessar advocated for using the state visit as catalyst for establishing tangible improvements rather than symbolic gestures—emphasizing fair procedures, business cooperation, and mutual respect as the foundation for a redefined relationship between the two nations.