Pompeo: “Suriname has a friend in the United States”

“Suriname has a friend in the United States,” said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at a press conference that was held at the Presidential Palace on Thursday. Pompeo who made history as the first US secretary of state to visit Suriname pointed out that the visit shows that two nations are willing to strengthen the ties. After having had various talks with Surinamese government officials Pompeo indicated that he is convinced that the partnership between both nations is based on democratic values and the protection of human rights.

Pompeo reportedly spoke to the Surinamese minister of Foreign Affairs, Albert

Ramdin, and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.

“It is the first time in about 4 decades that a US secretary of state visits Suriname. My government is in favor of supporting democratic processes in this region,” said Pompeo who applauded the fact that the Surinamese elections where the people exercised their democratic right had gone smoothly. Pompeo pointed out that he is aware of the fact that the COVID-19 crisis has had a negative effect on countries in the world and added that the United States of America are prepared to support Suriname. He made it clear that he is in favor of equal partnership that produces benefits to both Suriname and the American nation.

Pompeo once again emphasized that the private sector is the backbone of a nation’s economy and that America is prepared to support Suriname.

President Santokhi pointed out that the visit of the American minister is the first step towards strengthening the bilateral ties between Suriname and the United States of America. The Surinamese head of state indicated that collaboration on trade, defense and justice were discussed during the meeting with Pompeo. He also made it clear that Pompeo’s visit has nothing to do with the developments in Venezuela. “Suriname will not interfere in the internal affairs of Venezuela,” said President Santokhi.