“I consider Suriname my second native country”

“I consider Suriname my second native country. I found my term in office in Suriname very pleasant and I noticed that the government has reached political and social stability under the leadership of President Desi Bouterse,” said the outgoing Chinese ambassador to Suriname, Zhang Jinxiong, at the Presidential Palace on Thursday. The Honorary Order of the Palm was bestowed upon the Chinese diplomat by President Bouterse.

The Chinese ambassador was decorated for all the work he has done to strengthen the ties between Suriname and the People’s Republic of China. Ambassador Zhang pointed out that the bilateral relation between Suriname and the People’s Republic of China is currently at a historic peak of fast and broad developments. The relations between both countries are built on mutual understanding, respect and trust. This important factors boosted the fruitful collaboration on areas such as infrastructure, housing, agriculture, finance and culture,” said Ambassador Zhang. Last year both governments signed the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative that is aimed at achieving more sustainable development and growth. The Chinese ambassador pointed out that his country and Suriname contribute to the international peace and stability with their good collaboration and coordination in regional and international matters. He is convinced that Suriname will achieve more successes with improving national prosperity and wellbeing for the people by executing the Development Plan 2017-2021. President Bouterse in turn pointed out that he greatly appreciated all that Ambassador Zhang has done. He described the diplomat as an ambassador who is committed to strengthening the bilateral relations between both nations. The president mentioned several projects that the ambassador supported such as expanding the training opportunities for Surinamese citizens in China, the Dalian IV Project, construction of the Wanica Hospital, e-governance, a housing project and the camera surveillance project for the inner-city. The president also pointed out that he appreciated the fact that the ambassador lend a helping hand in the form of emergency relief supplies for hinterland residents whose villages were flooded. President Bouterse made it clear that China is the first foreign nation that did not hesitate to give aid to the victims.

Zhang will reportedly be replaced by the experienced diplomat, Liu Quan, who is currently stationed in Vanuatu. The new Chinese ambassador is expected to arrive in Suriname in August.