NEWSLETTER

Celebration of the Anniversary of Suriname's 49th Independence & Diplomatic Relations with Guyana

September 12, 20255 min read
SGCC Newsletter 2024-09

Happy 49th Independence Anniversary to the Republic of Suriname!

On November 25th, 2024, we celebrated Suriname’s growth, commitment to progress and diverse culture. The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) is proud to honor this milestone and the enduring friendship between our two nations.

Here’s to a future filled with strengthened collaboration, shared opportunities, and continued prosperity!

Read the Full SGCC Media Release Here

The Suriname Surprise in Guyana 2024

The Suriname Surprise in Guyana 2024, held on November 23, 2024 at the Pegasus Corporate Centre, was an incredible evening celebrating the 49th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Suriname and the enduring diplomatic partnership between Suriname and Guyana!

The evening was a vibrant celebration of shared progress, collaboration, and cultural richness. Hosted by the Embassy of Suriname in Guyana in collaboration with the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), the event brought together leaders, businesses, and communities in a spirit of unity and growth.

The SGCC is honored to have been part of this momentous occasion. Here's to continued collaboration and a bright future for Suriname and Guyana!

View this Event Album on Facebook

SGCC Members Who Sponsored the Suriname Surprise in Guyana:

The Exceptional Suriname Surprise Fashion Show

A spectacular evening celebrating Surinamese creativity and culture at the Suriname Surprise in Guyana fashion show!

We were mesmerized by the stunning designs of Julio Irokromo and Negesthy Wijngaarde, brought to life by the makeup artists Suzan Lion Tjin Shoe-Hek and Maureen Allon.

CLICK BELOW TO VIEW THE HIGHLIGHT ON FB

https://www.facebook.com/share/1CgwB2nttP/

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H.E. President Chandrikapersad Santokhi Met With the SGCC

The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) extends heartfelt gratitude to H.E. President Chandrikapersad Santokhi for his invaluable support since our launch on August 31, 2023, and for accommodating us for meeting with us. During this pivotal meeting at the Pegasus Corporate Center in Georgetown, the President reaffirmed his commitment to fostering collaboration, economic growth, and regional connectivity.

Discussions included updates on the International Business Conference (IBC) Suriname 2025, hosted by the SGCC.

This engagement underscores the shared vision of strengthening cross-border trade and creating lasting prosperity for both nations.

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Presidential visit

Presidential Meeting

Suriname Announces “Royalties for Everyone”

H.E. Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President of Suriname, unveiled a groundbreaking initiative during the country’s Independence Day celebrations, pledging to distribute oil royalties to all adult citizens. This program aims to ensure every Surinamese benefits from the nation’s anticipated oil and gas boom, projected to generate US$10.5 billion over the next two decades. President Santokhi stated, "No one will be left behind."

Each citizen will receive $750 in a savings account with a 7% annual interest rate. To manage this influx responsibly, Suriname has established a sovereign wealth fund, emphasizing long-term economic stability.

Guyana Advances Key Initiatives with $84.5 Billion

The National Assembly approved $84.5 billion in supplementary funding to advance transformative initiatives. Among these, $30.5 billion supports the $100,000 cash grant for citizens aged 18 and older, aimed at placing $60 billion directly in the hands of Guyanese.

The Gas to Energy project received $25.3 billion to halve electricity costs and meet growing energy demands. Housing development saw $8.4 billion allocated to expand schemes and coastal water supply, advancing the government’s 50,000 house lots goal. Additional approvals included $5.5 billion for drainage and irrigation, $4.5 billion for regional hospitals, and $1.2 billion to support tuition-free education at the University of Guyana from 2025.

Digital Transformation with Open Data Bill for Guyana

Guyana’s National Assembly has passed the landmark Open Data Bill, a pivotal step in the country’s transition to a digital economy. Presented by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, the legislation promotes transparency, innovation, and effective governance through the administration of public data. Aligned with global standards, the bill introduces safeguards to protect privacy while enhancing accessibility. It mandates public authorities to appoint Data Officers and maintain electronic data registers. Complementing the Data Protection Act, the Open Data Bill empowers citizens and sectors, fostering informed decision-making and attracting investment to drive national development.

Suriname Updates: Development & Partnership

Suriname's government has allocated US$6 million for neighborhood development projects over the next six months, with a focus on infrastructure, housing, and public safety. President Santokhi emphasized the resolution of land conflicts, expansion of food programs, and new housing initiatives, including affordable loans. Minister of Public Works Riad Nurmohamed now has the budget to address critical road repairs, and solar energy projects will reach 15 interior villages.

Additionally, Suriname and Aluminum Corporation of China Limited (Chinalco) signed an MoU to mine bauxite in West Suriname. Chinalco will invest US$426 million, with Suriname securing a 13% stake in the project and board representation.

The Government of the Republic of Suriname has listed a series of state-owned companies for privatization, while identifying a list of same that should not be privatized. Click here to view the Full List

Guyana and Suriname Reaffirm Commitment to Child Rights

To mark the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), Presidents Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname reaffirmed their dedication to advancing child rights. President Ali signed UNICEF's Call-to-Action, highlighting legislative achievements, and President Santokhi pledged to establish a Child Ombuds Institute. UNICEF commended the efforts and commitment of both nations, to ensuring every child’s rights are upheld across both nations.

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