The 2025 Beijing Chaoyang International Light Festival has transformed the city into a dazzling wonderland, where light, art, and technology converge to create an unforgettable sensory experience. Held in the heart of Beijing’s Liangma River Cultural and Economic Belt, the festival, themed ‘Shining Galaxy,’ has captivated visitors with its enchanting displays and innovative use of digital technologies. From flying dragons dancing among trees to a luminous opera singer gliding across a shimmering lake, the festival is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and urban life.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
-
Geologen speuren naar strategische mineralen in Mapane en Phedra
A collaborative geological expedition involving Surinamese and Chinese experts has conducted field research in the Mapane and Phedra regions to investigate the presence of granite and potentially lithium-bearing rocks. Lithium, a globally strategic mineral, is crucial for sustainable energy and the production of batteries for electric vehicles. The research team comprised representatives from the Geological Mining Service of Suriname, the Nanjing China Geological Survey, and students from the Anton de Kom University of Suriname. The expedition, led by Professor Dr. Salomon Kroonenberg in collaboration with GMD head Lindsey Sanné, took place on October 8. During the fieldwork, various rock samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Sanné emphasized that the results will clarify the mineral composition and geological structure of the area. This initiative is part of the ongoing collaboration between Suriname and China in geological research, focusing on knowledge exchange, capacity building, and sustainable resource utilization. Experts suggest that the findings could enhance understanding of Suriname’s mineral potential, which is increasingly significant amid the global energy transition. Countries like Bolivia, Chile, and Guyana are also actively exploring their lithium reserves as part of broader sustainable development strategies.
-
Bouva en Todd bespreken versterking van Suriname–Guyana-corridor
Suriname and Guyana have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and infrastructural domains. This pledge was solidified during a high-level meeting between Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business, and Cooperation (BIS), Melvin Bouva, and his Guyanese counterpart, Hugh Todd, on Tuesday in Georgetown. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the International Business Conference, held in Guyana from October 14 to 16. The meeting built upon the recent visit of Guyanese President Irfaan Ali to Suriname’s President Jennifer Simons in September. Both ministers focused on actionable steps to implement the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform (SDCP), which serves as the framework for collaboration between the two nations. Key areas of discussion included regional integration, trade, energy, agriculture, and tourism. The ministers highlighted the strategic significance of the Suriname-Guyana corridor, which is increasingly recognized as a vital economic zone linking the Caribbean with Latin America. They pledged to actively support this development in partnership with the private sector and multilateral organizations. Specific projects addressed during the meeting included the Corantijn Bridge initiative, the revitalization of the Canawaima Ferry Service, energy cooperation with a focus on sustainable alternatives, the reactivation of the Border Commission, and the operational resumption of SDCP committees by November 1. These committees will focus on agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and energy. Both ministers agreed to hold regular consultations to monitor progress and evaluate the implementation of SDCP agreements. In a joint statement, they described the meeting as “constructive and forward-looking,” emphasizing stability, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth in the region. Minister Bouva was accompanied by Minister Andrew Baasaron of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation, Ambassador Liselle Blankendal, Deputy Director Shailesh Ramsingh, and Second Secretary Lucille Starke-Esajas.
-
VWPU schort beraad op – onderwijs aan universiteit hervat
The ongoing deliberations of the Scientific Personnel Union (VWPU) at the Anton de Kom University of Suriname (AdeKUS), which began on October 7, have been temporarily paused following a request from Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, Dirk Currie. This decision was made during an emergency meeting of the union’s general assembly. Meanwhile, educational and examination activities at AdeKUS have resumed. The VWPU had received an invitation from the ministry on October 9 for discussions, which took place on October 13. The meeting, attended by ministerial staff and university management representatives, concluded with an agreement to collaboratively work on long-term solutions for the scientific staff’s conditions. A negotiation team comprising experts from the ministry and the university has been formed to address these issues. Minister Currie requested the pause in union deliberations while talks are ongoing, a request the VWPU has honored. The union emphasized that discussions have been constructive and remain focused on sustainable improvements within the university.
-
Wereldleiders in Beijing zetten zich in voor versnelling vrouwenontwikkeling
Three decades after the Fourth World Conference on Women, the journey toward full gender equality remains fraught with challenges. Addressing this pressing issue, Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled four pivotal proposals at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing, aiming to expedite the comprehensive development of women worldwide. Xi emphasized the necessity of fostering broader consensus, opening new pathways, and taking actionable steps to address the complex obstacles women face globally.
The meeting, attended by world leaders, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations, served as a platform for in-depth discussions on gender equality and women’s empowerment. President Xi called for collective efforts to create a conducive environment for women’s growth and development, stating, ‘Their overall development is achieved under the conditions of peace and stability.’ He highlighted the importance of enhancing protection for women and girls in regions affected by war, conflict, poverty, or natural disasters, underscoring women’s critical role in conflict prevention and community rebuilding.
Xi also advocated for strengthening mechanisms to combat violence against women and addressing all forms of gender-based violence decisively. He proposed leveraging scientific and technological innovation to empower women and support their role in green development. Additionally, Xi emphasized the need for robust governance frameworks to safeguard women’s rights and interests, including improved legislation and access to quality health and education services.
The Chinese leader urged for a new chapter in global cooperation for women, focusing on supporting their role in global governance and sharing its benefits. He reiterated the central role of the United Nations and called for increased attention to the needs of women in developing countries, alongside the creation of broad collaborative platforms.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stressed the importance of strengthening women in leadership roles and inclusive decision-making, while Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton emphasized international collaboration to improve women’s global standing. Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama shared the country’s progress in gender equality, including the election of its first female vice president.
UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed highlighted the centrality of women and girls in green and digital transitions, and UN Women Executive Director Sima Sami Bahous reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality worldwide.
The event, attended by a delegation from the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, showcased a vibrant display of international flags and cultural diversity, symbolizing the collective effort to address gender inequality. The meeting concluded with a renewed call for global unity and actionable measures to achieve gender equality.
-
AFD blijft partner in verbetering gezondheidszorg oosten land
In a significant move to bolster healthcare services, Suriname’s Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labour, André Misiekaba, met with a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD) on Monday. The discussions centered on evaluating the progress of the Marwina Regional Hospital in Albina and exploring further collaborative opportunities. The hospital, operational since 2017, has been pivotal in providing healthcare services in eastern Suriname and is now expanding its capabilities. Key attendees included Director Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul and Project Manager Grätl Petrisie-Blokland. The meeting highlighted persistent challenges such as a shortage of medical specialists and modern equipment, alongside the need for sustainable staffing policies. Minister Misiekaba proposed several recommendations for improvement, including the appointment of a pediatric dentist, expansion of the dialysis center, recruitment of doctors and specialists, and investments in transport facilities between Paramaribo and Albina. The AFD has been actively collaborating with Suriname on projects aimed at epidemic prevention and healthcare in border regions with French Guiana. These joint efforts are enhancing epidemiological control in these areas. The visit underscores the importance of continued cooperation and investment in healthcare to improve service quality, particularly in the country’s interior.
-
Gajadien: Gratie mag geen politiek instrument worden
Assembly member Asis Gajadien has expressed deep concerns regarding the recent handling of pardon requests submitted to President Jennifer Simons. Gajadien emphasized that the process must be conducted with “utmost care” to safeguard the rule of law and Suriname’s international reputation. He highlighted that Article 109 of the Constitution explicitly requires the president to seek advice from the judge who imposed the sentence or their successor before granting any pardon. “This provision is not a mere formality but a cornerstone of our democratic legal system,” Gajadien stated. “It ensures judicial independence and public trust in fair legal proceedings.” Gajadien further stressed that pardons are exceptional legal remedies, reserved for “extraordinary circumstances involving humanitarian or equity considerations.” He warned against using pardons as political tools or undermining judicial authority. “The manner of application, through political platforms, adds a concerning dimension to this issue,” he noted. Gajadien urged the president to consider not only legal requirements but also societal interests and Suriname’s international credibility when addressing pending pardon requests. He cautioned that premature or inadequately justified pardons could damage the government’s image and send the wrong signal to the international community, which closely monitors Suriname’s commitment to good governance and integrity. “Society deserves the assurance that justice is administered fairly, transparently, and without bias,” Gajadien concluded, calling on the coalition and the president to prioritize the rule of law, social stability, and the moral authority of the office above all else.
-
VS blaast weer boot op nabij Venezuela; 6 doden
In a dramatic military operation, the US Navy destroyed a boat in international waters near the Venezuelan coast on Monday, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, as confirmed by former President Donald Trump. The targeted vessel was allegedly involved in drug trafficking, prompting the US government to label the operation as a strike against ‘narcoterrorists.’ Trump released a video showing the moment the boat exploded, emphasizing the action as part of America’s broader campaign against illegal drug networks. The US administration defended the operation, asserting its legality under international law and its alignment with efforts to combat organized crime. However, the incident has drawn criticism from legal experts and human rights advocates, who question the transparency and justification of such attacks, particularly in the absence of publicly disclosed evidence. Critics argue that the move sets a concerning precedent for unilateral military actions in international waters, raising questions about adherence to international legal standards.
-
Fernald lanceert boek over onderwijsvernieuwing: ‘Van crisis tot perspectief’
Ivan Fernald, a prominent figure in Surinamese education, has launched his latest book, ‘From Crisis to Perspective: The Best Education for Every Student.’ The book was formally presented to Minister of Education, Science, and Culture Dirk Currie and Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin. Fernald’s work transcends a mere retrospective; it serves as a clarion call for the restoration and renewal of Suriname’s educational system. The author poses three pivotal questions: What went wrong in the reform process? What structural issues underpin the educational crisis? And how can the system be repaired and strengthened? Fernald critiques the 2020–2025 education policy, highlighting both its urgency and the fragility of its reforms. He argues that initiatives lacking adequate preparation, legal grounding, or structural support are destined to fail. The book is structured thematically, diagnosing the educational crisis, examining the role of teachers and curriculum, addressing the plight of disadvantaged students, and advocating for practical, hands-on education. In the final section, Fernald outlines a comprehensive recovery and transformation plan with actionable recommendations. He emphasizes that quality education is the cornerstone of socioeconomic progress and national development, urging for a national education agenda supported by political, societal, and educational stakeholders. Fernald’s policy proposals include the establishment of an Innovation Bureau to drive educational reforms, the creation of a Strategic National Education Council (SNOR) as an independent advisory body, a greater role for the Anton de Kom University and IOL in digital transformation, the qualification of the Interior as a stimulation area, and the reintroduction of the sixth-grade test (year 8) to better assess student support needs. Concluding his work, Fernald calls for collaboration: ‘What we need is not just innovation, but direction, continuity, and support. Only then can we truly turn the tide.’ ‘From Crisis to Perspective – The Best Education for Every Student’ is positioned as a guiding compass for policymakers, teachers, parents, and all who believe in the right of every child in Suriname to receive the best education.
-
Natio pakt zwaar bevochten punt tegen Panama: 1–1
In a fiercely contested World Cup qualifier, the Surinamese national football team managed to secure a valuable point against Panama in an away match that ended 1–1. Despite Panama’s dominance throughout the game, Suriname capitalized on their opportunities to deliver a resilient performance. Panama controlled possession from the outset, maintaining 67% of the ball in the first half and launching twelve attempts, four of which were on target. Suriname’s goalkeeper, Etienne Vaessen, played a pivotal role with several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Against the run of play, Suriname struck in the 21st minute through a swift counterattack. Cherry Tjaronn delivered a precise pass to Richonell Margaret, who calmly finished to give Suriname a 0–1 lead. Vaessen continued to shine, making two reflex saves to deny Panama an equalizer before halftime. In the second half, Panama intensified their pressure, pinning Suriname in their own half for extended periods. A controversial penalty claim was overturned by VAR, but Panama eventually found the equalizer in the 96th minute through relentless attacking. Despite the late setback, Suriname’s mental fortitude and tactical discipline earned them a crucial point, keeping their qualification hopes alive with two matches remaining in the group stage.