(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has congratulated Suriname on its Fiftieth Anniversary of Independence, recognizing the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that the Community shares with the country.
In a congratulatory message to the President of Suriname, Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett said:
“For thirty years, Suriname has been a valued Member of CARICOM, as the Community’s first non-English speaking country. This visionary action has been well-demonstrated though its commitment to regional integration, including as the lead Head of Government in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet on Community Development and Cultural Cooperation, including Culture, Gender, Youth and Sport, as well as Industrial Policy.”
The Secretary-General’s full message reads as follows:
“Excellency,
On behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I extend warm congratulations to the Government and People of the Republic of Suriname as you celebrate your nation’s Fiftieth Anniversary of Independence.
The theme for this Golden Jubilee, “Srefidensi na Srefidenki” (Independence through Reflection), reminds us that independence is best anchored on courageous thoughts, decisions, and actions, thereby giving true meaning to sovereignty.
For thirty years, Suriname has been a valued Member of CARICOM, as the Community’s first non-English speaking country. This visionary action has been well-demonstrated through its commitment to regional integration, including as the lead Head of Government in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet on Community Development and Cultural Cooperation, including Culture, Gender, Youth and Sport, as well as Industrial Policy. Further, Suriname’s stewardship and advocacy on climate change and forests have strengthened our Community’s global voice on this critical issue.
We look forward to your continued active engagement within the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet on these issues, which lie at the heart of regional transformation, resilient societies, creative economies, and an empowered citizenry.
CARICOM values the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that we share with Suriname. On this momentous occasion, the Community extends very best wishes to the Government and People of Suriname for joyous celebrations, and continued peace, prosperity, and progress. Happy Fiftieth Independence Anniversary!”
Ends.
