Visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar to Suriname (May 06 - 07, 2026)

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S Jaishankar paid an official visit to the Republic of Suriname from 06-07 May 2026.

2. The 9th JCM was co-chaired by EAM and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation, Melvin W. J. Bouva. The JCM provided an opportunity to review the full spectrum of India-Suriname bilateral relations. They agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of defence and security, health, energy, trade and commerce, technology, agriculture, culture, education, sports, infrastructure, and traditional systems of medicine. Both Ministers noted that India-Suriname relations are marked by cordiality, understanding and convergence of views on current global issues. They also exchanged perspectives on key global and regional developments and cooperation. EAM offered soft loans under Lines of Credit for infrastructure and strategic sector development of Suriname. It was agreed to hold the next JCM in India.

3. EAM called on President Dr. Jennifer Geerlings-Simons. EAM conveyed warm greetings from India to the Government and people of Suriname. He highlighted that India and Suriname are committed to realize the full potential of the deep and longstanding bilateral relationship. EAM also met with Chairman of the Suriname National Assembly, Dr. Ashwin Adhin. They recognized the importance of Parliamentary exchanges between two democracies.

4. During the visit, EAM handed over 'Passion Fruit Processing facility at MCP Agro N.V.' to Suriname in the presence of Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva and Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Mike N. Noersalim. The project was completed with Indian grant and technical assistance and will enhance the value addition capacity of the agri-based industries. EAM emphasized the significance of development partnership and conveyed that new Quick Impact grant Projects can be explored.

5. EAM paid respects at Mahatma Gandhi statue in the central Paramaribo. He visited the Baba and Mai monument and paid tributes to the first arrival of Hindustanis in Suriname. EAM paid homage at the 'Monument for the Fallen Heroes in Marieburg.' He visited the Lallarookh Museum which is the custodian of the cultural heritage of Hindustani community.

6. A week-long National Archives exhibition was inaugurated by EAM to showcase the history of Indian migration to Suriname and he delivered an address on 'Partnership for Progress' reflecting India-Suriname relations. EAM acknowledged the courage and resilience of Girmityas who continue to inspire generations and strengthen the bonds of friendships. During his interaction with the Indian community, he shared various aspects of India's transformation and underlined that India is a trusted partner for Suriname's growth, development and prosperity.

Paramaribo
May 08, 2026