PARAMARIBO: India is ready to share its experiences with Suriname and help in its progress and development. President Draupadi Murmu stated that while Suriname and India are geographically separated, their shared history and cultures bind them together and that India is willing to share its experiences with Suriname and aid in its progress and development.
Murmu made her first official trip since taking office in July of last year when she arrived in Suriname on Sunday for a three-day stay.
Tuesday's community reception for the Diaspora and friends of India was organised by the Indian Embassy. President Murmu and her counterpart Chandrikapersad Santokhi spoke there. A two-minute moment of silence was held prior to the reception's start to mourn the victims of the rail tragedy in Balasore, Odisha. The catastrophe resulted in at least 278 fatalities and more than 900 injuries.
She emphasised how India had changed and advanced in a number of areas, including infrastructure, digital services, new technology, and fintech, and said that India was willing to share its knowledge and assist Suriname in developing.
We may be geographically apart, but our shared history and traditions bind us together. We have a very special place in our hearts for Suriname and the Surinamese people. You all serve as a link between our two nations' friendship and collaboration; in a sense, you are India's permanent ambassadors to Suriname. She claimed that creating enduring ties with the Indian Diaspora around the world is the Indian government's top goal, President said.
She referred to President Santokhi, who is of Indian descent, and added, "We are proud to see the leaders of Indian origin in Suriname reach the highest echelons of public service." "It is an honour for me to take part in the 150th anniversary celebration of Indian immigration to Suriname. We take satisfaction in the fact that Indians hold the top positions in Suriname. Indians have made a substantial economic, social, and cultural contribution to Suriname's growth, she said. She also expressed her happiness at the 150-year-long preservation of Suriname's culture, heritage, and language.
President said, she held a broad range of discussions with her Suriname counterpart that will help to deepen bilateral ties.