During the 56th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS), Suriname called for strengthening multilateral cooperation, climate justice, and democratic resilience in the region. Minister Melvin Bouva of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation addressed the meeting in Panama City on June 24, 2026.
The OAS meeting was held from June 22 through 24 under the theme: “The Americas United Around the 200th Anniversary of the Amphictyony Congress of Panama.” In his speech, Bouva emphasized that countries cannot solve today’s international challenges on their own.
According to the minister, an international order based on rules, sovereignty, and respect for international law remains essential for peace, security, and sustainable development. “A rules-based international order, with respect for sovereignty and international law, is indispensable for peace, security, and sustainable development,” Bouva stated. He also emphasized the importance of strong institutions, transparency, the rule of law, and civic participation.
Bouva, who currently also serves as chair of CARICOM’s Council on Foreign and Community Relations, elaborated on the growing security threats in the region. He cited, among other things, transnational crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime, illegal mining, and the effects of climate change as factors that can weaken democratic institutions and destabilize societies.
Suriname therefore advocates for greater regional cooperation, improved information sharing, and joint action. The minister called for special attention to be paid to the rising levels of violence in the region, which he said is hitting young people particularly hard. According to Bouva, in addition to security measures, investments are also needed in education, employment, and social inclusion.
Climate justice also featured prominently in Suriname’s contribution. Bouva pointed out that Suriname, with more than 90 percent forest cover, is one of the few carbon-negative countries in the world. According to him, the international community must fairly recognize and support countries that contribute to carbon sequestration.
“Climate ambition must go hand in hand with climate justice,” the minister said. He called for predictable climate financing and direct support for indigenous and tribal communities, which he said play a key role in preserving ecosystems. Bouva also pointed out Suriname’s vulnerability to extreme weather conditions, including recent flooding caused by heavy rainfall.
The minister also expressed support for a more effective and transparent OAS. According to Suriname, young people and innovators should play a greater role within the organization’s governance structure. In line with CARICOM’s position, Bouva also expressed solidarity with the Cuban and Haitian people in light of the humanitarian and socioeconomic challenges these countries are facing. He called for constructive dialogue to improve the situation.
Bouva concluded his speech with a call for collective action. “Ultimately, the success of the OAS is not measured by the resolutions we adopt, but by the positive impact we have on our people together.”
