Suriname will host Suriname Diplomatic Week from 18 to 24 November 2026, with more than fifty countries and international organisations participating either in person or digitally. Through the event, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation (BIS) aims to bring diplomacy closer to society while simultaneously promoting international cooperation, trade and investment.
The official launch took place on Friday, 30 October. During the meeting, Minister Melvin Bouva and Juan Pawiroredjo, chairman of the steering committee, presented the logo, programme and objectives of the diplomatic week. The event will be held under the theme ‘Diplomacy in Action: Bringing Us Closer Together’.
According to Bouva, diplomacy should not take place exclusively behind closed doors, but should also be visible and accessible to society. “Diplomacy has a human face,” the minister stressed. Through Diplomatic Week, the ministry aims to position Suriname more strongly internationally. The mission ‘To make Suriname shine’ is central to this.
Focus on trade and investment
An important part of the diplomatic week is the promotion of economic cooperation. This takes into account the expected economic developments in Suriname, including the growth of the offshore oil and gas sector.
The programme is intended to create opportunities for Surinamese entrepreneurs to establish contacts with foreign investors and business partners. Special attention will be given to sectors such as agriculture, logistics and tourism.
During trade and investment sessions, local companies will have the opportunity to explore international cooperation opportunities.
Diplomats visit schools and universities
Young people will also be actively involved in the programme. From 16 to 19 November, diplomats will visit various educational institutions and provide masterclasses for secondary school pupils and students.
The official opening reception is scheduled for 18 November. A day later, the public film event ‘Embassies under the Stars’ will take place in the car park between the Cabinet of the President and that of the Vice President.
From 20 to 22 November, the Diplomatic Village will be set up in the Prince Ballroom. Visitors will be able to meet representatives of more than 33 countries physically present, foreign missions and international organisations. Admission to this part is free.
Symposium on foreign policy
On 23 November, the ministry will organise a symposium focused on Suriname’s foreign policy. The diplomatic week will conclude on 24 November with visits by international delegations to various locations. These activities will take place in the run-up to the celebration of Surinamese independence on 25 November.
According to the ministry, the event will also be used as preparation for the CARICOM chairmanship, which Suriname will assume in 2027.
Costs limited through cooperation with the business community
According to the organisation, costs for the ministry will be kept limited through cooperation with local sponsors and the business community. The participating foreign missions will bear the costs of their own stay in Suriname.
With Suriname Diplomatic Week, BIS aims not only to strengthen international relations, but also to bring citizens, students and entrepreneurs into direct contact with the diplomatic world. The ministry calls on society to participate in the various activities.
