Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • President Simons en koning Willem-Alexander benadrukken gelijkwaardige toekomstrelatie

    President Simons en koning Willem-Alexander benadrukken gelijkwaardige toekomstrelatie

    In a significant diplomatic engagement held in Fredriksdorp, Commewijne, Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Surinamese President Jennifer Simons outlined a transformative vision for bilateral relations between their nations. The high-level discussion, which occurred during the King’s state visit, addressed critical issues including visa liberalization, educational cooperation, and historical reconciliation.

    The pressing matter of visa acquisition difficulties for Surinamese citizens seeking to visit Netherlands received prominent attention. King Willem-Alexander acknowledged the persistent challenges, revealing that Suriname could formally request visa liberalization from the European Commission—a process where Netherlands has committed to providing support in Brussels. Meanwhile, the monarch emphasized the need for more humane processing of visa applications, recognizing the suboptimal conditions and extended waiting periods currently experienced by applicants.

    Educational and cultural exchange emerged as another cornerstone of the renewed partnership. The King highlighted existing cooperation at university and higher vocational levels while announcing new exchange programs for vocational education. “I’ve truly witnessed the profound connection between our nations,” the monarch stated, indicating this perspective would inform future Dutch policy approaches.

    Regarding the complex historical legacy between the former colony and colonizer, President Simons characterized the reconciliation process as a mutual learning journey. While acknowledging that reparations discussions could occur within established CARICOM frameworks, she firmly asserted Suriname’s independent development path: “We will not wait for reparations to develop our country.”

    Both leaders struck a forward-looking tone in their closing remarks. King Willem-Alexander thanked Suriname for the warm reception and open dialogue, envisioning a future relationship built on friendship and shared history. President Simons described the visit as positively transformative, having “unpacked a package” of opportunities for collaboration on equal footing, signaling a definitive shift from post-colonial dynamics to genuine partnership.

  • Johan Sandie benoemd tot directeur van SLM

    Johan Sandie benoemd tot directeur van SLM

    PARAMARIBO – Surinam Airways (SLM) has announced a significant leadership transition with the official appointment of Johan Etiré Sandie as its new Managing Director. The decision was formally ratified during the General Shareholders’ Meeting on December 3rd, 2025, with Sandie’s tenure commencing effective December 4th, 2025.

    This appointment concludes the interim leadership of Steven Gonesh, who had been serving as acting director during the transition period. Gonesh will remain with the national carrier in a key operational capacity, assuming the role of Deputy Director of Operational Affairs & Accountable Manager, ensuring continuity in the airline’s critical functions.

    The Board of Commissioners expressed formal gratitude to Gonesh for his stewardship and contributions while leading the company on an interim basis. In an official communiqué, the board extended a warm welcome to Sandie, conveying their confidence in his leadership and wishing him both success and wisdom as he undertakes this pivotal executive role.

    The official announcement was formally endorsed by Marlon Telting, President-Commissioner of Surinam Airways. This leadership change comes at a crucial time for the aviation industry as carriers worldwide navigate post-pandemic recovery and operational challenges. Sandie’s appointment signals a new strategic direction for the state-owned airline as it seeks to strengthen its market position and operational efficiency.

  • China financiert drinkwaterprojecten voor 26 dorpen in binnenland

    China financiert drinkwaterprojecten voor 26 dorpen in binnenland

    Suriname and China have formalized a significant bilateral agreement to construct drinking water infrastructure across 26 villages in the remote interior regions of Boven-Suriname, Marowijne, and Brokopondo. The partnership was cemented through the signing of official minutes by David Abiamofo, Suriname’s Minister of Natural Resources, and Jia Jinyi, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Suriname.

    This development cooperation initiative focuses on installing advanced groundwater purification systems designed to provide sustainable access to safe drinking water for thousands of residents in historically underserved communities. The project represents a complete donation from the People’s Republic of China, covering all implementation costs.

    The agreement follows extensive preparatory work conducted in June by Chinese technical experts who performed comprehensive feasibility studies and meticulously assessed local conditions in each beneficiary village. Suriname’s Water Supply Service will facilitate project execution through logistical support, community communication, and capacity building programs.

    This infrastructure development marks a substantial step toward addressing structural water supply deficiencies in Suriname’s interior regions, potentially transforming public health outcomes and living standards in these communities.

  • Jarbandhan vraagt president om uitleg over forse prijsstijgingen

    Jarbandhan vraagt president om uitleg over forse prijsstijgingen

    VHP Assembly Member Ameerani Jarbandhan has formally requested President Jennifer Simons to provide clarifications regarding Suriname’s alarming surge in consumer prices, as documented in recent statistical reports. In an official correspondence dated December 1st, the parliamentarian cited data from the General Statistics Bureau (ABS) revealing that retail prices in October 2025 were 11.9% higher compared to the same period in 2024.

    The statistical breakdown reveals particularly dramatic increases in specific sectors: (para)medical services experienced an unprecedented 115.7% price surge, while goods and services collectively rose by 21.5%. Children’s clothing prices increased by 20.2%, followed closely by bread, rolls, and snacks at 19.9%. Transportation services climbed by 15.3%, with housing, maintenance, repairs, and utilities rising by 14.6%.

    Jarbandhan emphasized the continuous nature of these price escalations and their direct impact on household economies and societal welfare. She notably contrasted the current figures with May 2025’s 5.6% year-over-year inflation rate, highlighting the accelerated pace of recent economic deterioration.

    The assembly member posed three critical questions to the president:

    1. Root Cause Analysis: Jarbandhan seeks clarification regarding the fundamental drivers behind the recent inflationary spike, specifically requesting input from the Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation.

    2. Economic Impact Assessment: She questions whether the government acknowledges that current currency devaluation effectively constitutes ‘purchasing power theft’ that undermines citizen economic stability.

    3. Policy Response: The legislator demands details about concrete measures the administration plans to implement to prevent further price increases and stabilize the economic situation.

    Copies of the formal inquiry have been concurrently delivered to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation for coordinated response.

  • Brandweer rukt uit voor forse brand bij supermarkt

    Brandweer rukt uit voor forse brand bij supermarkt

    A significant fire emergency unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday when local residents reported intense flames and smoke emanating from a combined supermarket and residential building at the intersection of Evita and Allendestraat. The alarm was raised at precisely 4:31 AM after neighbors witnessed the alarming sight of fire consuming part of the structure.

    Emergency response teams reacted with immediate urgency, deploying multiple firefighting units to the scene. Police personnel were simultaneously dispatched to establish security perimeters and manage crowd control around the affected area.

    Initial reports from first responders confirmed that a substantial section of the supermarket was already fully engulfed in flames upon their arrival. Firefighting operations remain actively underway as crews work to contain the blaze and prevent further damage to adjacent properties. The exact cause of the fire and potential casualties remain undetermined at this stage of the ongoing emergency response.

  • Natio Uma speelt 2–2 tegen Dominicaanse Republiek

    Natio Uma speelt 2–2 tegen Dominicaanse Republiek

    In a thrilling Concacaf World Championship qualifier match on Tuesday evening, Suriname’s national women’s football team (Natio Uma) demonstrated remarkable resilience by securing a 2-2 draw against the Dominican Republic on their home turf. The match showcased dramatic momentum shifts that kept spectators on edge until the final whistle.

    The Surinamese squad exploded from the starting gates with an impressive offensive display, establishing a commanding two-goal advantage within the first five minutes of play. Isabelle Hoekstra initiated the scoring spree in the 3rd minute with a precise finish, immediately putting the hosts on the defensive. Merely two minutes later, Chanté Dompig extended the lead with a clinical strike that left the Dominican defense stunned and silenced the local supporters.

    However, the Caribbean hosts gradually regained their composure and mounted a determined comeback. Mia Asenjo ignited hope for the Dominican side in the 16th minute by reducing the deficit with a well-executed goal. This breakthrough intensified pressure on Suriname’s defensive line and transformed the game dynamics entirely.

    The subsequent phases evolved into an intense midfield battle with both teams creating scoring opportunities while demonstrating tactical discipline. As the match approached its conclusion, Asenjo emerged as the hero for the Dominican Republic, delivering the equalizer in the 85th minute to complete her brace and ensure the points were shared between the nations.

    This result represents a significant achievement for Surinamese women’s football against traditionally stronger regional opposition, providing valuable experience ahead of subsequent qualification matches.

  • EY schetst kansen en knelpunten voor Nederlandse bedrijven in Suriname

    EY schetst kansen en knelpunten voor Nederlandse bedrijven in Suriname

    PARAMARIBO, SURINAME – EY Suriname took center stage during a high-profile information session on December 2nd at the Royal Ballroom of Torarica, addressing Dutch business delegates accompanying the Dutch royal couple’s state visit to Suriname. The event, organized by VNO-NCW and MKB-Netherlands, focused on navigating Suriname’s business landscape with expert insights from one of the world’s leading professional services firms.

    During the keynote presentation, EY professionals including Tax Associate Partner Kimberly Schreuders provided comprehensive analysis of Suriname’s investment climate. The session covered critical aspects such as fiscal regulations, macroeconomic trends, cultural considerations, educational infrastructure, and workforce capabilities. Drawing from their extensive regional experience across Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad, Curaçao, and Aruba, EY presented both opportunities and challenges facing potential investors.

    Practical insights emerged as a key theme, with EY emphasizing that while Suriname offers substantial economic potential, success requires thorough preparation and understanding of local market dynamics. The firm highlighted specific sector opportunities, including agriculture modernization where Rob Baan, CEO of Koppert Cress, noted enormous possibilities in seed technology, water infrastructure, and crop protection under challenging climate conditions.

    EY’s Agida Biervliet, Consulting Senior Manager, stressed the importance of collaborative development: “Our role extends beyond identifying opportunities to helping businesses contribute meaningfully to sustainable development through knowledge sharing and local partnerships.”

    Notably, EY revealed its ongoing ‘Brain Gain’ campaign initiative aimed at encouraging Surinamese diaspora professionals to return home, thereby strengthening local capacity and accelerating economic progress. The firm positioned knowledge transfer, local talent development, and cross-border cooperation as essential components for successful market entry and long-term growth in Suriname.

  • Dag 2: Koningspaar bezoekt jeugd, onderwijs, buurtwerk en bedrijfsleven

    Dag 2: Koningspaar bezoekt jeugd, onderwijs, buurtwerk en bedrijfsleven

    King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands continued their state visit to Suriname on Tuesday with a focus on youth engagement, cultural preservation, and bilateral cooperation. The second day of their diplomatic mission featured visits to key institutions demonstrating the nations’ shared commitment to education, innovation, and sustainable development.

    The royal itinerary began at Villa Zapakara Children’s Museum, where the monarchs and President Jennifer Simons explored interactive exhibitions blending art, culture, and education. The royal participants engaged in workshops including music production and video creation while learning about Javanese cultural elements such as gamelan music, batik art, poco-poco dance, and traditional cuisine. Director Coco Duivenvoorde emphasized the institution’s role in connecting youth with cultural heritage and global citizenship.

    At the Natural Technical Institute (NATIN), the delegation witnessed Suriname’s advancements in vocational education. Minister Dirk Currie highlighted the critical importance of technical training for developing nations during a tour of modern facilities featuring process technology and electrical engineering simulation equipment supported by oil companies including Staatsolie. The visit featured presentations from Hackathon Deltares participants developing solutions for climate resilience and water management, alongside Anton de Kom University students showcasing food security innovations from the WUR 2025 Food Systems Innovation Challenge.

    A significant milestone emerged with the launch of the Netherlands-Suriname Educational Cooperation Platform, formalizing collaboration between vocational, higher education, and university institutions through joint projects, exchanges, and research initiatives stemming from the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding.

    The royal couple subsequently visited Stibula community center in Latour, where coordinator Wilgo Koster demonstrated decades-long social programs operating without government subsidies. The center provides safe spaces for sports, cultural activities, and theater productions for both youth and seniors.

    At Fernandes Bottling Company, the monarchs examined production methodologies and quality control systems during a facility tour highlighting 45 years of Dutch partnership. Sustainability took center stage through discussions about the FUSE Kitchen project—a mobile mini-factory converting plastic waste into construction materials—developed in collaboration with green technology firm Great Plastic Bake Off to reduce pollution while creating local recycling employment.

    The day concluded with a CEO Roundtable addressing economic cooperation, investment climate improvement, talent development, workforce capacity building, and sustainable economic transition, followed by a gratitude concert featuring Dutch artist Sabrina Starke at Thalia Theater.

  • FAI-directeur aangehouden op verdenking van malversaties

    FAI-directeur aangehouden op verdenking van malversaties

    Suriname’s state-owned agricultural enterprise Food and Agriculture Industries (FAI) N.V. is confronting a severe financial crisis with accumulated debts reaching $22 million, prompting emergency government intervention. Operations Director Nitesh Ramlakhan has been arrested following allegations of financial misconduct, while General Director Permila Bissumbhar remains suspended—both under criminal investigation for suspected corruption and violation of national anticorruption laws.

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) disclosed that despite approximately SRD 200 million in government subsidies over five years, FAI now faces critical liquidity shortages preventing payment of employee wages and essential operational expenses. Minister Mike Noersalim convened an urgent meeting with stakeholders including parliamentary representatives, union leaders, and board members to address what he described as “an extremely dire situation.”

    Investigations reveal multiple systemic failures: export operations to Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago have been suspended due to unpaid logistics contracts, while production has plummeted to 200 hectares—far below the 350-hectare break-even threshold. Outdated irrigation infrastructure and forced reductions in fertilizer use have exacerbated production declines.

    Minister Noersalim confirmed evidence of unauthorized asset sales, including non-seaworthy containers sold below market value, and salary increases implemented without board approval. With $8.5 million owed to Hakrinbank alone, the minister has initiated emergency talks with financial authorities to prevent collapse. “We cannot continue this way,” Noersalim stated, emphasizing government commitment to restoring FAI as Suriname’s banana sector leader through transparent restructuring.

    Stakeholders have pledged collaborative efforts to reduce debt burdens, revitalize production, and restore operational viability. The coming weeks are deemed critical for preserving export markets and ensuring the company’s survival.

  • AZP voert samen met Leiden en Den Haag 15 complexe neurochirurgische operaties uit

    AZP voert samen met Leiden en Den Haag 15 complexe neurochirurgische operaties uit

    Paramaribo Academic Hospital (AZP) has achieved a significant milestone in neurosurgical care through its seventh collaborative mission with Dutch medical specialists. From December 2nd, a joint team comprising neurosurgeons from Leiden, The Hague, and Suriname successfully performed fifteen complex brain and spinal procedures on patients with severe neurological conditions.

    The surgical interventions included advanced spinal reconstructions and delicate brain operations, with four pediatric cases among those treated. Several patients presented with existing neurological deficits, while others received preventive care to avoid impending damage. The mission featured a multidisciplinary approach that integrated expertise from maxillofacial surgeons from AZP, The Hague, and Utrecht University Medical Center.

    This ongoing partnership between Suriname’s neurosurgical program and the University Neurosurgical Center Holland has enabled increasingly sophisticated procedures to be performed locally. The collaboration has now progressed to training Surinamese medical professionals, with one candidate currently undergoing specialized training at the Dutch center.

    The surgical team was led by Professor W. Peul, working alongside Surinamese neurosurgeons Dr. H. Kort and Dr. R. Tjong Tjin Joe. They received operational support from Dutch neurosurgeons Dr. R. Nandoe Tewarie and Dr. W. Moojen for the brain surgeries. Critical assistance was provided by various AZP departments including operating theater staff, intensive care units, neurocare teams, and temporary Dutch operating room assistants.

    The Surinamese Ministry of Health provides structural support for this partnership, recognizing its vital role in developing local medical capabilities. The primary benefit remains that patients can now receive high-quality neurosurgical care within their own country, eliminating the need for expensive and logistically challenging medical referrals abroad.