In a landmark address during the extraordinary parliamentary session marking the state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, A20 faction leader Steven Reyme articulated a compelling vision for transforming Suriname-Netherlands relations. The Monday session became a platform for Reyme to outline principles of mutual respect, equality, and future-oriented cooperation that should define bilateral ties.
Reyme emphasized the symbolic significance of the royal visit occurring exactly fifty years after Suriname’s independence, noting the historical parallel between the former Queen and Prime Minister who witnessed independence and today’s female President and King. This chronological symmetry, he suggested, creates an ideal moment to inaugurate a new chapter in relations where historical acknowledgment progresses alongside societal development and perspective.
The parliamentarian highlighted the crucial role of the Surinamese diaspora in the Netherlands, numbering over 360,000 individuals, whom he described as “living bridges between our nations.” Reyme praised their contributions to Dutch society while maintaining strong connections to Suriname, seeing this dual allegiance as embodying the strength of shared history, culture, and future aspirations.
Addressing Suriname’s contemporary challenges, Reyme noted the nation stands at the threshold of significant transformations: youth demanding opportunities, an economy requiring diversification, and communities seeking stability and development. He expressed openness to cooperation facilitating knowledge transfer, trade, investments, education, security, sports, and culture—but emphasized this must occur “without dependency, through mutual respect.”
The faction leader acknowledged and appreciated recent Dutch steps toward recognition and apologies, stating that “the path of healing cooperation, historical acknowledgment, and shared responsibility must continue to be pursued.” Reyme expressed hope that this state visit might initiate a new period of respectful collaboration focused on peace, development, justice, and mutual understanding between the two nations.