SANTO DOMINGO. – The National Congress, in a joint meeting of both Chambers, received this Tuesday the President of the Republic of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, in a solemn ceremony held in the National Assembly Hall, as part of the official visit she is making to the country to strengthen cooperation and friendship relations between both nations.
Upon her arrival at the National Congress Palace, the Surinamese leader was received on the esplanade by the presidents of the legislative chambers, Ricardo de los Santos, of the Senate of the Republic, and Alfredo Pacheco, of the Chamber of Deputies, accompanied by a commission of senators and deputies. Subsequently, the head of state signed the Distinguished Visitors’ Book in the VIP Lounge of the National Congress and participated in an official photograph before heading to the National Assembly Hall.
During his welcoming speech, the President of the Senate, Ricardo de los Santos, highlighted that Geerlings-Simons’ visit constitutes a sign of both nations’ commitment to strengthening cooperation and shared development.
“Your presence in this Duartian land constitutes an unequivocal sign of political will and commitment to a cooperation agenda based on understanding, solidarity, and shared development. We recognize in Suriname a strategic ally with enormous human, economic, cultural, and environmental potential. From the Dominican Congress, we reaffirm our conviction that sister nations grow more when they strengthen dialogue and cooperation,” expressed De los Santos.
The President of the Upper House also pointed out that this meeting will allow for the continued strengthening of bilateral ties in areas such as trade, education, tourism, security, environmental sustainability, technological innovation, agriculture, industry, energy, responsible mining, and cultural exchange.
For her part, the President of Suriname thanked the Dominican authorities for the welcome received and highlighted the democratic values and common challenges shared by both countries.
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“I convey the warmest greetings from the people of Suriname and I am grateful for the hospitality and friendship we have received in the Dominican Republic. This meeting brings together two democracies that, although different in language and culture, share a firm conviction in democratic values, the rule of law, and the well-being of their citizens. My visit reaffirms our interest in strengthening ties with the Dominican Republic, expanding cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, tourism, and sustainable development, as well as promoting greater exchange between our parliaments”.
Jennifer Geerlings Simons said she is convinced that, by working together, they will be able to generate more opportunities and well-being for both peoples, while the nations face common challenges such as climate change.
“On behalf of the people of Suriname, I thank you for your kindness and reiterate my wish that the friendship between our two nations continues to strengthen,” stated Geerlings-Simons.
The president was accompanied by her husband, Glenn E. Geerlings; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation, Melvin W. J. Bouva; and the Minister of Transport, Communication and Tourism, Raymond H. Landveld, among other members of the official delegation.
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The visit is part of both countries’ efforts to continue consolidating diplomatic and cooperation relations, as well as strengthening the bonds of friendship between the peoples of Suriname and the Dominican Republic.
