Suriname seeks to strengthen cooperation with the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in order to turn national development plans into concrete results. The Surinamese delegation highlighted this during the 41st ECLAC meeting, which is being held from October 7 to 9 in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
During the first dialogue of Foreign Ministers and other high-level representatives, Suriname called for more strategic and technical support. The delegation sees opportunities for cooperation in strengthening government institutions, economic diversification, digital development and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
According to Suriname’s contribution, national development priorities should be more clearly reflected in the regional agenda. Although countries in the region face similar challenges, such as creating employment and improving transport links, their circumstances and available resources differ. A joint approach must therefore take sufficient account of the needs of smaller economies.
Using oil revenues for a broader economy
Suriname also drew attention to the opportunities offered by the offshore oil and gas sector. The development of this sector can create room for investments in education, technology, other economic sectors and public facilities.
The delegation stressed that the expected economic growth must not result in dependence on a single sector. The aim is to broaden the economy and use natural resources responsibly.
Suriname also pointed to its geographical position between the Caribbean and South America. Closer cooperation in trade, transport, energy and digital connections can, according to the delegation, contribute to the development of both Suriname and the region.
From policy advice to implementation
On the opening day, ECLAC presented the report Managing Transformations in an Era of Ruptures. The report stresses the importance of strong government institutions, investment in people and technology, and cooperation between government, the business sector and civil society organisations to steer economic changes in the right direction.
Suriname wants to make more targeted use of ECLAC’s knowledge and expertise. According to the delegation, in addition to research and policy advice, the organisation should also provide support in implementing development plans.
Host country the Dominican Republic emphasised the benefits of economic growth for the population during the opening. President Luis Abinader presented the development plan Meta RD 2036, through which the country aims to double its economy, create 1.7 million new jobs and eradicate extreme poverty within ten years. Vice President Raquel Peña stressed the importance of regional cooperation and greater trade among countries.
Suriname is represented at the meeting by Elizabeth Bradley, Director of Internationale Samenwerking at the Ministry of Buitenlandse Zaken, Internationale Handel en Samenwerking, and Charissa Dhauri, desk officer at the Duurzame Ontwikkeling department.
