Suriname and Spain celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations on Thursday, October 15, 2026, with a concert at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul in Paramaribo. The musical evening focused on friendship, cultural connectedness and cooperation between the two countries.
The concert was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation (BIS), in collaboration with the Spanish embassy. The event marked five decades of diplomatic relations between Suriname and the Kingdom of Spain.
Spanish classical guitarist Armando Orbón gave a performance introducing the audience to various facets of classical guitar music. A special part of the programme was his joint performance with Surinamese guitarists D’Angelo Cabenda and Guillaume Fredison. The Music&ME Choir also contributed to the musical evening.
Music as a bridge between the two countries
The concert brought together representatives of the Surinamese government, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisations and other invitees. During the gathering, attention was paid to the significance of diplomatic relations between Suriname and Spain. It was emphasised that cultural exchange can play an important role in strengthening mutual ties.
The collaboration between the Spanish and Surinamese musicians was a symbolic representation of this connectedness. By performing together, the artists showed how music can bring together people from different countries and cultures.
Further strengthening cooperation
The golden jubilee was not only dedicated to the past, but also provided an opportunity to look ahead to future cooperation between the two countries. Suriname and Spain have now maintained diplomatic relations for half a century. The anniversary celebration underscored the shared desire to further develop these relations and strengthen cooperation in various fields.
With the concert in Paramaribo’s historic cathedral, the anniversary took on a cultural character, with music used as a means of highlighting the friendship between Surinamese and Spanish societies.








