President Droupadi Murmu and President Chan Santokhi
President Draupadi Murmu has stated that while the two countries are geographically distant, they are linked by a shared history and heritage.
Murmu landed in Suriname for a three-day state visit on Sunday, her first since taking office in July last year.
President Murmu and her counterpart Chandrikapersad Santokhi spoke during a community reception for the diaspora and friends of India hosted by the Indian Embassy on Tuesday.
Before the reception began, a two-minute silence was observed to mourn the loss of lives in the rail accident at Balasore, Odisha. The tragedy killed at least 278 people and injured over 900 more.
President stated that India is willing to share its experiences with Suriname and assist in its progress and development, citing changes and advancement in numerous areas such as infrastructure, digital services, new technology, and fintech.
She further said, “We may be separated by geography, but we are united by our shared history and heritage. Suriname and the Surinamese people hold a very special place in our hearts”.
“You all act as a bridge of friendship and cooperation between our two countries – in a way you are the Permanent Ambassadors of India in Suriname!” the President continued.
She stated that India’s top priority is to strengthen ties with the Indian Diaspora around the world.
“We are proud to see the leaders of Indian origin in Suriname reach the highest echelons of public service”, she remarked, referring to President Santokhi.
She went on to say, “It is a privilege for me to be part of the celebration of 150 years of the arrival of Indians in Suriname. It is a matter of pride for us that Indians have reached the highest positions in Suriname. Indians have been contributing significantly to the development of Suriname economically, socially, and culturally”.
She was pleased to observe how Suriname had preserved its culture, tradition, and language for the past 150 years.
“I held a broad range of discussions with her Suriname counterpart that will help to deepen bilateral ties”, she added.
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