In a stirring address during the National Christmas Carols event at Independence Square, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname delivered a powerful message emphasizing unity, mutual care, and inner peace as essential foundations for the nation’s future. The President articulated that the peace commemorated during Christmas must originate within individuals to genuinely benefit society as a whole.
President Simons framed Christmas as both a period of reflection and hope, referencing the birth of Jesus Christ as the dawn of light that dispels darkness. She stressed that this inner illumination must first occur within each person before they can effectively address the needs of others and contribute to national development.
Highlighting interconnectedness as crucial to national progress, Simons urged Surinamese citizens to become guardians of one another and embrace mutual responsibility, particularly during challenging economic and social times. Her central thesis maintained that Suriname can only thrive through collective care and solidarity.
The President noted encouraging signs of growing social cohesion, pointing to the diverse religious backgrounds represented among attendees at Independence Square. She characterized this interfaith gathering as a promising seed of national unity that requires nurturing and protection.
Simons extended appreciation to citizens actively maintaining clean environments, businesses supporting school rehabilitation projects, and organizations that voluntarily facilitated the National Christmas Carols event. The celebration featured blessings from spiritual leaders across multiple faith traditions and musical performances accompanied by the police band.
Concluding her address, the President wished strength and hope to the nation while advocating for daily incremental steps toward a better tomorrow guided by mutual support and solidarity. “The peace that God has promised us must begin within ourselves,” Simons affirmed, encapsulating her vision of personal transformation preceding national advancement.