Suriname and Zambia Strengthen Ties with New Diplomatic Appointment
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname has accredited Glyne Michelo as Zambia’s Non-Resident Ambassador to Suriname. The ceremony took place in Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital, where Ambassador Michelo was honored with a military guard of honor.
During the presentation of the Letters of Credence, President Santokhi extended a warm invitation to Zambian companies to invest in Suriname. He highlighted the country’s rich resources, particularly in mining, agriculture, and forestry.
“Suriname is a nation on the rise, focusing on sustainable economic development,” President Santokhi stated. “We have abundant land available for investment and are keen to develop our resource sectors.”
The President also emphasized Suriname’s burgeoning oil and gas sector, noting significant discoveries and a promising future. The country’s first offshore oil production is expected to begin in 2028, with Staatsolie, the state-owned oil company, currently producing 17,000 barrels per day. This offers potential collaboration opportunities between Suriname and Zambia.
In his response, Ambassador Michelo expressed gratitude to President Santokhi for the opportunity to present his credentials and relayed a message of goodwill from Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
Ambassador Michelo emphasized President Hichilema’s commitment to strengthening relations between Zambia and Suriname.
The Ambassador outlined several areas of potential collaboration. He proposed sharing Zambia’s expertise in tropical agriculture, crop diversification, and sustainable farming practices.
“Zambia is heavily investing in its agriculture sector to ensure food security amid climate change,” Michelo said. “We are eager to collaborate on agricultural research, improve pest and disease control, and enhance productivity.”
Michelo also highlighted Zambia’s position as a major copper producer and offered to assist Suriname in developing its copper mining industry. He suggested collaboration on responsible mining practices, geological surveys, and mineral processing technologies.
Additionally, he proposed educational exchanges, noting that Suriname could benefit from sending students to Zambia’s renowned Schools of Mining.
Regarding energy, Ambassador Michelo recommended exploring joint ventures in hydropower, solar energy, and bioenergy.
He expressed interest in Suriname’s offshore wind energy explorations, indicating potential for mutual learning and collaboration in sustainable energy development.
The statement, issued by Lloyd Kapusa, First Secretary-Press & Public Relations at the Zambian Embassy in Brasilia.
