PArAmArIBo AnD HAnGzHou to continue collaboration

Suriname’s capital, Paramaribo, is currently also part of the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). United Cities and Local Governments supports international cooperation between cities and their associations, and facilitates programs, networks and partnerships to build the capacities of local governments. The organization is a gateway to relevant information on local government across the world. The Chinese city of Hangzhou which has a facilitating role also helps to strengthen and expand the ties between various cities. A delegation from Hangzhou on Friday visited the Paramaribo North-East District Commissioner’s Office. DC Mike Nerkust pointed out that Paramaribo and Hangzhou have been partners for the past twenty years. He explained that the best way to increase the productivity of a city is to opt for international collaborations with other cities. DC Nerkust emphasized the fact that the exchange of knowledge with Hangzhou has already proven beneficial to Suriname. Reforms were implemented at the Central Market after Surinamese officials had made various trips to the People’s Republic of China. About 200 cities including Kingston, Caracas and Mexico City have joined the UCLG. The main goal of the UCLG is to strengthen decentralisation and local self-government in order to contribute to local good governance in all regions of the world.