Parliamentary Delegation from Suriname Meets President Murmu to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

New Delhi:  A distinguished parliamentary delegation from the Republic of Suriname, led by H.E. Mr. Marinus Bee, Chairman of the National Assembly of Suriname, paid a courtesy call on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.

Welcoming the delegation, President Murmu underscored the warmth and friendship characterizing the relations between India and Suriname. She highlighted the strong people-to-people contacts, cultural linkages, and shared traditions that form the bedrock of the bilateral ties. Emphasizing commonalities in the approach to global issues, President Murmu expressed optimism about the future of the India-Suriname partnership.

Reflecting on the significant events of 2023, President Murmu recalled the crucial high-level exchanges between the two nations. These included the visit of President Chandrikapersad Santokhi to India in January 2023 on the occasion of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, followed by her own State Visit to Suriname in June 2023 – marking her first international visit after assuming office as President. President Murmu fondly remembered participating in the special commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Suriname and expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the government and people of Suriname.

President Murmu emphasized the untapped potential in bilateral trade and economic cooperation, citing opportunities in health, Ayurveda, agriculture, renewable energy, digital technologies, education, culture, and tourism. Stressing the importance of parliamentary exchanges, she noted that such interactions provide a valuable platform for fostering understanding and cooperation between the two democracies.

Expressing confidence in the ongoing visit, President Murmu anticipated that members of the delegation would gain insights into India’s robust and vibrant democratic systems. The meeting concluded on a positive note, highlighting the commitment to further strengthen the multifaceted ties between India and Suriname.