Santo Domingo.– The governments of the Dominican Republic and Suriname strengthened their bilateral relations this Monday with the signing of cooperation agreements and strategic alliances in key areas such as tourism, agriculture, trade, investment, education, and economic development.
The commitments were announced by President Luis Abinader and the President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, during an official meeting held at the National Palace.
One of the most relevant announcements was the decision by the Government of Suriname to allow the entry of Dominican citizens with ordinary passports who hold a valid United States or Schengen Area visa, without the need to apply for a Surinamese tourist visa.
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The leaders also highlighted the importance of air connectivity between both countries and valued the operation of the direct route between Santo Domingo and Paramaribo established by the airline Sky High Dominicana, which they consider a fundamental step to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.
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They will boost investment and trade
During the meeting, both nations agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic economic alliance aimed at expanding trade exchanges, facilitating market access, and promoting new investments.
As part of those efforts, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Suriname’s investment promotion agency and ProDominicana to strengthen business and commercial ties between the two countries.
The leaders also agreed to promote greater private sector participation through alliances between chambers of commerce, business associations, and investment promotion agencies.
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Agricultural and educational cooperation
In agricultural matters, the Dominican Republic and Suriname agreed to develop a joint action plan to exchange knowledge, technologies, and best practices aimed at strengthening food security and sustainable production.
Likewise, an academic cooperation agreement was signed between diplomatic institutions of both countries to promote training programs, scholarships, and exchanges for students and officials.
Concern for Haiti
In the joint statement, the presidents expressed concern about the crisis facing Haiti and urged the international community to redouble efforts to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable solution that contributes to the stability of the neighboring nation.
Both leaders agreed that Geerlings-Simons’ official visit represents an important step to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen regional integration in the Caribbean.
