PM meets new Surinamese President, vows stronger Guyana-Suriname ties

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips met with the President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, on the side-lines of her historic inauguration on Wednesday.
During the engagement, Prime Minister Phillips extended congratulations to President Geerlings-Simons on her accession to office, describing the occasion as a significant milestone not only for Suriname but also for the wider Caribbean region.

Phillips expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet with President Geerlings-Simons and reaffirmed the Co-operative Republic of Guyana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, with particular emphasis on advancing economic and social co-operation between the two neighbouring states.
He emphasised that Guyana and Suriname are “one people”, bound by shared history, values, and aspirations, and identified several key areas for continued collaboration – including energy cooperation with Brazil, agriculture, and fisheries.
The Surinamese Head of State expressed her intention to work closely with Guyana on bilateral matters of mutual interest. She noted the importance of transparency and co-operation in fostering fruitful relations and affirmed her Government’s readiness to engage in joint projects that will benefit both countries.
Phillips informed President Geerlings-Simons that Guyana will hold general and regional elections on 1st September 2025 and reiterated the Government’s commitment to a process that is free, fair, and democratic. He also noted that President Ali looks forward to engaging with her on matters of mutual importance for Guyana and Suriname.