President Jennifer Simons will participate in the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York from 21 to 24 September. In her address, she will discuss, among other things, the international legal order, climate finance and Suriname’s economic opportunities as a future oil-producing country.
The head of state’s address is scheduled for Tuesday, 22 September, the first day of the General Debate. According to Minister Melvin Bouva of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation, Simons will speak as the fourth speaker during the second session.
The theme of the 81st General Assembly is: “Restoring trust, managing the transition: a UN that delivers results for everyone.”
Bouva says that, through the president, Suriname will convey a clear message about complying with international agreements and protecting the international legal order. According to him, the country remains an outspoken advocate of multilateralism, in which states jointly seek solutions to cross-border issues.
In addition to participating in multilateral meetings, the Surinamese delegation will hold several bilateral talks. The focus will be on relations with border and neighbouring countries, countries of origin and other states with which Suriname maintains a strategic relationship.
Suriname’s economic development will also be discussed during the meetings. As a future oil-producing country, Suriname wants to use the gathering to hold talks with potential international investors. Bouva stresses that the national interest comes first and that Suriname wants to negotiate from an equal position.
“Based on that starting point, we are open to doing business with the world,” the minister said.
Climate and nature conservation also form important parts of Suriname’s message. The government wants to draw particular attention to Suriname’s position as a green and forest-rich country and keep the issue high on the international climate agenda.
Bouva referred to the USD 20 million commitment made in 2025 by an international coalition of five major nature and environmental organisations. The money is intended to support the conservation of Suriname’s forests and biodiversity. According to the minister, Suriname has not yet been able to fully complete the necessary legal measures, but steps are being taken to nevertheless enshrine the agreements in law.
