PARAMARIBO, Suriname – France says it is keen on strengthening its relationship with Suriname and is calling on the country to accelerate the ratification process of the border protocol, signed in Paris in March 2021.
Ambassador De Lacoste and his wife during the reception, after the toast with President Chan Santokhi and President-elect Jennifer Simons on Monday night“Such ratification would consolidate our current cross-border cooperation, but also open up new areas,” said French Ambassador, Nicolas de Lacoste, during a reception at his residence on Monday evening marking Le Quatorze Juillet, France’s national holiday.
He urged the in-coming Suriname government to to ratify the agreement, saying that Paris is eager to further explore the possibility of introducing a border pass to facilitate the lives of the local population. France also hopes that Suriname will soon sign and ratify the UN Convention on Biological Diversity Beyond National Jurisdiction.
According to the diplomat, the border operation ‘Atipa’ between Albina and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is yielding “encouraging results.
“The message we want to send is clear: Suriname cannot serve as a safe haven for criminals operating on French soil, and France cannot serve as a safe haven for criminals operating in Suriname either,” the diplomat said, noting the cooperation between the police in the two countries.
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi said that the “potential of our shared maritime space has been underscored by the offshore oil and gas developments, where Staatsolie and TotalEnergies are working hand in hand”.
He said in times of crisis, friends show their true value and thanked De Lacoste for his support of Suriname during his term, both bilaterally and multilaterally.
“Your friendship has been a pillar of our progress, and we remain committed to strengthening our cooperation for the prosperity and well-being of our people.” Santokhi said, expressing confidence that the cooperative relationship will continue under the administration of his successor, President-elect Jennifer Geerlings-Simons.
Santokhi also used the occasion to thank the diplomatic community for its partnership, advice, and dedication to the country, adding “your contributions have been invaluable to our national efforts, and I sincerely thank you for your dedication”.
De Lacoste said the investment announcement by the French-based TotalEnergies has significantly improved the economic climate and international perception of Suriname.
He said that this success, underscored by the SEOGS conference, led to an increase in French companies establishing themselves in Suriname and others exploring the economic opportunities. Besides TotalEnergies, Teleperformance is also active in Suriname.
The French diplomat wished President-elect Simons and her team, who will be sworn into office on Wednesday, every success.
“As neighbors, we wish Suriname prosperity and security. My country, France, will do everything in its power to contribute to this,” De Lacoste added.
