PARAMARIBO – During the Article 3 Partnership Dialogue on Thursday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation, Suriname and the European Union (EU) reaffirmed their close cooperation and explored further steps to deepen this relationship. The meeting was co-chaired by Minister Melvin Bouva and EU Ambassador Luca Pierantoni.
The talks highlighted the strong bond between the two sides, based on mutual respect, shared values and a shared commitment to sustainable development. Suriname emphatically presented itself as a connecting link between the Caribbean, South America and Europe, and underlined the importance of regional integration. Reference was made to Caricom’s anniversary year and the renewed cooperation between Europe and Latin America after the recent EU–CELAC summit.
Unique position
In his opening speech, Minister Bouva emphasized Suriname’s unique position as a carbon-negative country and the role it plays in protecting rainforests and biodiversity. According to him, the energy transition and climate financing should not only contribute to global climate goals, but also create concrete economic opportunities for the Surinamese people. At the same time, it highlighted the economic changes in the country, including the expected growth of oil revenues, which must be kept in balance with sustainable development goals.
Suriname called on the European Union to cooperate more closely on infrastructure and digital connectivity, including through the Global Gateway initiative. In addition, themes such as good governance, rule of law and security were extensively discussed, with specific attention to border management, regional stability and tackling illegal activities such as mining, fishing and human trafficking.
Global issues
Ambassador Pierantoni emphasized that current geopolitical developments increase the importance of multilateral cooperation. He spoke about the impact of the war in Ukraine and appreciated the support that Suriname has provided within the United Nations. According to him, strong partnerships are essential to protect international norms and legal principles. He also underlined the joint commitment to climate and biodiversity, in which Suriname plays a key role thanks to its vast forest areas.
Furthermore, the EU expressed its solidarity with the region in tackling crises in Haiti and Cuba, among others, and emphasized the importance of political dialogue and cooperation. Suriname’s active role within CARICOM and the EU-Caribbean partnerships was praised, with the prospect of more intensive cooperation when Suriname takes over the chairmanship of CARICOM in 2027.
On an economic level, the importance of fair and stable trading conditions was discussed. The European Union confirmed its commitment to a reliable trade relationship and emphasized that ratification of the economic partnership agreement is necessary to realize concrete benefits for the Surinamese economy and business. Investments through the Global Gateway initiative should contribute to better connectivity, energy supply and climate adaptation.
EPA
Subsequently, the status of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) was also discussed. Both sides discussed the progress of implementation and the possibilities to further strengthen trade and investments. The key point was that the agreement must deliver tangible and inclusive benefits for Suriname.
According to the ministry, the dialogue was concluded in a constructive atmosphere, with both Suriname and the European Union expressing their willingness to further intensify cooperation and jointly build sustainable and inclusive growth.
