Minister Melvin Bouva of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation spoke with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The ministers discussed the existing cooperation between Suriname and Cuba and opportunities to expand it.
Bouva expressed his appreciation for the commitment of Cuban professionals in Suriname and the educational opportunities Cuba offers to Surinamese students. He proposed also exploring cooperation in agricultural training and knowledge exchange, with a view to food security.
During the meeting, Rodríguez addressed the economic and energy problems facing Cuba. The ministers also discussed opportunities in the field of solar energy. According to the ministry, Bouva stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in seeking solutions that benefit the Cuban population.
Migration and accessibility were also discussed. As chair of the CARICOM Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Bouva pointed to regional concerns about the situation of the Cuban population and of students from CARICOM countries residing in Cuba. Suriname intends to continue contact with Cuba and further explore cooperation, the ministry said.
