标签: Suriname

苏里南

  • Column: De kracht van eenvoud in leiderschap

    Column: De kracht van eenvoud in leiderschap

    In an increasingly complex world, the allure of leadership often revolves around intricate strategies, grand plans, and impressive titles. However, amidst this complexity, leaders risk losing sight of what truly matters. Simplicity, far from being a mere style, emerges as a potent tool in effective leadership. It embodies clarity, enabling leaders to communicate their vision in a way that resonates with everyone, fostering connection and understanding. Simplicity also involves making decisions that cut through unnecessary details, focusing instead on what truly counts. This approach helps maintain focus during turbulent times and inspires trust. Moreover, simplicity is an act of courage. It requires the bravery to distill complex situations to their essence without losing the appearance of control. It demands transparency and clarity in difficult decisions, eschewing jargon and bureaucracy. Yet, too often, leaders are seen in the grandeur of their ministerial SUVs, surrounded by bodyguards, seemingly disconnected from the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens. They no longer feel the potholes, the traffic jams, or the floods that plague the common man. Their opulent vehicles shield them from the crumbling houses and the realities of the people they serve. Imagine the impact if leaders embraced the simplicity exemplified by former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who famously cycled to work in a suit. Such an act would not only bridge the gap between leaders and citizens but also foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the populace. In a society where complaints about leadership are rife, the civility of the people in not resorting to violence is commendable. However, in other parts of the world, dissatisfaction has led to attacks on politicians and loss of life. Embracing simplicity in leadership—whether through modest transportation or reduced security—could forge a stronger bond with the public. Leaders who experience the daily grind firsthand would gain invaluable insights into the lives of those they govern. Ultimately, simplicity in leadership lays the foundation for effective collaboration and sustainable impact. Leadership is not about complexity but about the ability to connect, inspire, and move forward together. True leadership begins with the courage to be simple—close to the people, with open eyes and an open heart. Only then can trust be built, propelling a nation forward.

  • Van woorden naar daden: partijen zetten toon voor politieke beschouwingen

    Van woorden naar daden: partijen zetten toon voor politieke beschouwingen

    The National Assembly of Suriname commenced its annual General Political Reflections (APB) today, marking a pivotal moment for political discourse and evaluation. This tradition precedes the budget discussions and offers a platform for political parties to share their perspectives on the nation’s socio-economic, governance, and foreign relations landscape. The APB serves as a critical forum for dialogue between party leaders and the President, setting the stage for policy formulation and national priorities.

  • Column:Borrelpraat no. 897

    Column:Borrelpraat no. 897

    In a decisive move, Suriname’s President has intervened to halt ongoing discussions regarding the export of bauxite from West Suriname, emphasizing that no agreements or negotiations have been conducted on behalf of the government. This development comes amidst a backdrop of historical controversies surrounding bauxite deals, including past attempts by former ministers to renegotiate terms with foreign entities at the eleventh hour. The President’s firm stance has been echoed by the Vice President, who assured that all potential investors are being kept informed and that any processing of bauxite must occur domestically, with due consideration for indigenous interests. However, the President’s recent public statements have caused confusion among some, particularly following the visit of a Chinese mining company’s CEO to Suriname. The President also addressed broader issues of land allocation, declaring that all land grants since 2018 are illegal and that a thorough review will be conducted to legitimize rightful allocations. This process is expected to be a monumental task, potentially involving hundreds of legal cases and significant financial implications for the state. The President’s proactive measures aim to rectify past irregularities and ensure that Suriname’s natural resources are managed in the best interest of its citizens.

  • Tijdelijke wegafsluitingen om defiléoefeningen

    Tijdelijke wegafsluitingen om defiléoefeningen

    In preparation for the grand parade and ceremonial celebrations scheduled for November 25, the Suriname National Army, the Suriname Police Corps (KPS), and other armed and security forces will conduct a series of rehearsals at various locations in the coming days. These practice sessions will necessitate temporary road closures and diversions in and around the designated areas. The KPS has announced that the rehearsals will primarily take place in the early morning, starting at 7:00 AM, on the following dates: Wednesday, November 12; Friday, November 14; Monday, November 17; Thursday, November 20; and Saturday, November 22, 2025. Specific locations include the Police Academy on Commewijne Street for the initial rehearsals, with the joint rehearsal (pre-general) with the National Army occurring at the Police Academy on November 20. The final general rehearsal, involving both the National Army and the Police Corps, will be held at the KKF grounds on November 22, with road closures and diversions around the Kernkampweg area. The KPS has urged all road users to cooperate by adhering to traffic signs and police instructions to ensure the smooth execution of these rehearsals.

  • Taptoe valt in de smaak: spektakel en discipline bij 50 jaar Srefidensi

    Taptoe valt in de smaak: spektakel en discipline bij 50 jaar Srefidensi

    The Taptoe event held on Saturday evening at the André Kamperveenstadion was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the audience. The demonstrations by special military units were particularly impressive, showcasing tactics for clearing hostile territories and neutralizing the fictional terrorist Pata-Alata, who was portrayed as invincible due to ‘special protection.’ The event also emphasized discipline within the ranks, with a scene depicting the arrest of a soldier who had violently robbed his ex-girlfriend of a necklace he had previously gifted her. The Taptoe is part of the celebrations marking 50 years of Srefidensi on November 25. The stadium was filled to capacity, with attendees arriving hours before the start. A military armored vehicle was stationed at the main entrance, and non-operational heavy weapons were displayed along the walkways, attracting eager photographers. The military band provided a musical backdrop, blending traditional marches with popular tunes, much to the audience’s delight. First Lieutenant Giovanni van Kust, the event’s spokesperson, expressed satisfaction with the turnout and positive reception. The event was opened and closed by Defense Minister Uraiqit Ramsaran, who energized the crowd with chants of ‘Morale, high! Sranan na loktu fu alla!’

  • Krachtige tornado verwoest Braziliaanse stad, zes doden en honderden gewonden

    Krachtige tornado verwoest Braziliaanse stad, zes doden en honderden gewonden

    A catastrophic tornado with wind speeds reaching 250 km/h tore through the southern Brazilian state of Paraná on November 8, 2025, leaving a trail of destruction and despair. The city of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, home to 14,000 residents, bore the brunt of the storm, with approximately 90% of its structures obliterated in less than a minute. The disaster claimed at least six lives, injured 750 people, and left one individual missing. Aerial images reveal a landscape of shattered buildings and debris, while nearby agricultural lands remained largely untouched. Fernando Schunig, head of Paraná’s Civil Protection Agency, likened the scene to a ‘war zone,’ emphasizing the lethal impact of such events on urban areas. Residents like Gilberto Brecailo and Marileia Chagas shared harrowing accounts of losing livelihoods and narrowly escaping death. The tragedy struck as Brazil prepared to host the UN Climate Conference COP30 in Belem, reigniting discussions on climate change’s role in intensifying extreme weather events. Experts warn that rising temperatures and humidity could increase atmospheric instability, fueling more frequent and severe tornadoes. In response, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity with victims, while government officials mobilized emergency aid, including food, hygiene products, and shelter materials. Governor Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr. declared three days of mourning as search and rescue operations continued.

  • Vreedzaam eist onderzoek naar gronduitgifte in inheemse gebieden

    Vreedzaam eist onderzoek naar gronduitgifte in inheemse gebieden

    Jennifer Vreedzaam, a member of Suriname’s National Assembly (NDP), has formally requested the Attorney General and the Minister of Agriculture to investigate the contentious allocation of over 113,000 hectares of land in the Wayambo region. Vreedzaam alleges potential legal violations and the infringement of indigenous rights in the communities of Cornelis Kondre and Donderkamp. The land, allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) for agricultural purposes on November 16, 2022, spans 27,925 hectares. Vreedzaam argues that the allocation process may have bypassed legal procedures, particularly those safeguarding the rights of indigenous communities as outlined in the 1982 Decree on State Land Allocation. She highlights the presence of visible communities, agricultural activities, and hunting grounds on the allocated land, raising concerns about the lack of prior consultation or consent from local residents. The case draws parallels to a 2015 ruling by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which condemned Suriname for human rights violations in the Kaliña and Lokono case. Vreedzaam also points to the inclusion of the protected Coroniezwamp area in the allocation, further complicating the issue. She calls for accountability, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to legal frameworks, including the 2017 Anti-Corruption Law. The letter underscores the importance of protecting indigenous rights and ensuring proper governance in land allocation processes.

  • De China Import Expo als springplank naar de wereldmarkt

    De China Import Expo als springplank naar de wereldmarkt

    The China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, the world’s largest trade fair, has once again proven to be a monumental event, bringing together thousands of exhibitors and visitors from over 150 countries. Spanning an impressive 430,000 square meters, the expo showcases China’s commitment to opening its market and reinforcing its pivotal role in the global economy. The event serves as a critical platform for countries and businesses to strengthen their presence in the Chinese market, fostering innovation and collaboration. Rwanda, for instance, has participated in every edition since the expo’s inception, witnessing a nearly 30% annual growth in exports to China, particularly in the agricultural sector. A standout success story is Rwanda’s chili pepper industry, which secured a $2 million order for chili oil during the first CIIE, leading to the country becoming the first African nation to export dried chili peppers to China in 2021. This initiative has created jobs for hundreds of local women and significantly improved their living standards. Colombia, making its debut as a guest country this year, utilized the expo to introduce products like Arabica coffee, emeralds, chocolate, and beef to the Chinese market. According to Sergio Cabrera, Colombia’s ambassador to China, the CIIE helps businesses adapt to evolving consumer trends and optimize their strategies. From Europe, Angel Prieto, an innovation specialist from Spain, described the CIIE as a ‘magical platform’ where connections between European startups and Chinese industrial chains flourish. The expo is not just about showcasing and selling products but also about building sustainable partnerships. As a participant in the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, I had a unique behind-the-scenes look at this global event. The media center provided top-notch facilities, including 5G Wi-Fi and translation equipment, ensuring seamless reporting. The organization was impeccable, from reception to departure, reflecting the immense effort invested in making the event a success. Exploring the vast complex, I encountered diverse exhibits, from Nigeria’s vibrant cultural displays to China’s exquisite Kashmir textiles. World-renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Chanel were prominently featured, highlighting the expo’s global appeal. The CIIE is more than a trade fair; it is a convergence of culture, innovation, and economy, fostering long-term international cooperation and creating unforgettable experiences for participants worldwide.

  • Rusland over Chinalco: We jagen geen serieuze investeerders weg; president op de hoogte

    Rusland over Chinalco: We jagen geen serieuze investeerders weg; president op de hoogte

    Suriname’s Vice President Gregory Rusland has addressed recent confusion stemming from President Jennifer Simons’ remarks regarding Chinalco, a leading Chinese mining company. Rusland emphasized that the president is fully briefed on all significant matters, including the recent visit of Chinalco’s CEO to Suriname. Speaking to Starnieuws, Rusland clarified that he maintained regular communication with the president, even during her overseas trips, and informed her in advance about the meeting with the Chinalco delegation.

    The CEO of Chinalco arrived in Suriname on November 3 for a brief visit, following a request made to Rusland on November 1. During the discussions, Rusland expressed his disagreement with the terms of an agreement presented by the previous administration. He stressed that Suriname should not merely export raw materials, as outlined in the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Instead, he advocated for local processing of resources to create added value and ensure greater benefits for the country.

    Rusland also highlighted the importance of considering the interests of local communities and adhering to environmental standards in any future agreements. The Chinalco CEO reportedly expressed willingness to discuss these concerns, with Rusland assuring that the government would formalize its stance.

    The vice president reiterated Suriname’s openness to dialogue with credible investors but emphasized the need for clear conditions. He stated that while Suriname must navigate the complexities of international power dynamics, it should also define its own objectives clearly. “We do not deter serious investors, but they must contribute to sustainable development and local value creation,” Rusland affirmed.

    On a personal note, Rusland marked his 66th birthday quietly, out of respect for the passing of former President and Honorary Chairman Ronald Venetiaan.

  • Autobestuurder slachtoffer gewapende overval Mawakaboweg

    Autobestuurder slachtoffer gewapende overval Mawakaboweg

    In the early hours of November 9, a driver fell victim to a violent armed robbery near a shop on Mawakaboweg. The incident occurred around 3:13 AM when the victim was boxed in by a gray Toyota Vitz. Three masked individuals emerged from the vehicle, forcibly taking a bag containing cash in US dollars, euros, and Surinamese dollars, along with important documents and personal belongings. During the altercation, the victim sustained a gunshot wound to his right knee and was promptly transported to a medical facility for treatment. The perpetrators fled the scene in the direction of Mohamed Rashid Pierkhanweg, leaving authorities to investigate the crime. This brazen act of violence has raised concerns about safety in the area, as police work to apprehend the suspects and prevent further incidents.