Paramaribo, May 8: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Friday spoke on the theme ‘Partnership for Progress’ in Paramaribo, Suriname, and highlighted India’s global role, stressing the need for partnership for progress. EAM Jaishankar took to social media ‘X’ and said, “Spoke on the theme ‘Partnership for Progress’ at Paramaribo this evening.
Thank FM Melvin Bouva for his presence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Suriname for organising the programme.” “Made the case that a tough world nevertheless requires progress. And that is best achieved through partnerships. Highlighted the characteristics of a trusted partner who can reconcile national interest with global good. Described India’s role in global politics in that context, focusing on our development partnerships, global workforce, first responder record, and new initiatives,” he said.
“It is this India that will partner Suriname in its growth trajectory and jointly write the next chapter of the India-Suriname story,” EAM Jaishankar added. EAM Jaishankar also planted a sapling at India House in Suriname under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’. “Very glad to plant a sapling at India House Suriname under #EkPedMaaKeNaam,” EAM Jaishankar said in another post.
Earlier on Thursday, EAM S. Jaishankar handed over a fruit-processing facility in Paramaribo city of Suriname, which was established with financial assistance from India. India provided fruit processing machinery to Suriname, funded under the USD one million Small and Medium Enterprises grant announced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in 2025.
During his remarks at the event, the Minister said, “This project also serves to underline a larger message of India as a partner of Suriname and of the Global South.” He said that India’s commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means the world as a family, is demonstrated not just in words but through particular projects and specific activities, and noted that this is a very good illustration of it.
“In the times to come, as Suriname advances in its quest for progress and prosperity, India will always be a reliable partner,” he added. He was joined by Suriname Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva and Agriculture Minister Nike Noersalim at the event.
IANS
