Happy Monday!

In this week’s newsletter, we cover the President’s visit to China, a crackdown on crime in the country, and the opposition party, NDP, introducing a no-confidence motion against the current government.

President Chan Santokhi visited China this week and met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the visit.

China and Suriname have a long history with the first Chinese labourers coming to Suriname in 1853. The President’s meeting highlighted this history and the strong ties between the two countries.

• The leaders met in Beijing where the President of Suriname was met with a reception.

• The ceremony in Beijing showcased mutual respect and underscored the historical relationship between the two. The visit aimed to deepen cooperation across various areas crucial for Suriname's future development.

• President Santokhi expressed pride in the partnership's foundation of mutual understanding and cooperation, envisioning a future where both countries lead in sustainable development and promote global peace and stability.

• President Chan Santokhi and Premier Li Qiang of China had a productive meeting during Santokhi's state visit highlighting ties between the countries and future cooperation.

• Premier Li acknowledged Suriname's importance as a strategic partner and pledged to continue supporting the country, including encouraging Chinese investment.

• President Santokhi thanked China for its immense assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasized the historical bond between Suriname and China, which dates back to 1853.

• Both leaders emphasized the importance of international collaboration on issues like climate change and strengthening the multilateral system.

• In attempting to receive funding for the Bridge over the Corantijn River connecting Suriname and Guyana, President Santokhi also on behalf of President Irfaan Ali presented a joint letter to President Xi Jinping via diplomatic channels.

• Both parties agreed to initiate further discussions on finances as soon as possible. China supports the intentions of both governments to promote regional connectivity through a fixed riverbank connection, in line with the spirit of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative.

• The state visit to China by the Surinamese president serves as strong proof of mutual political trust. It further signifies attempts by the Surinamese government to continue its economic recovery.

President Santokhi also met with various top executives of Chinese companies.

• President Chan Santokhi engaged in discussions with various major Chinese companies interested in investing in Suriname across sectors like mining, agriculture, infrastructure, technology, energy, and more.

• Initial talks yielded interest from companies like Zijin Mining and CITIC Group in further expanding their operations in Suriname. The construction of the bridge over the Corantijn River connecting Guyana and Suriname was also top of mind.

• The aim is to convert this interest into concrete investments, fostering collaboration with Surinamese partner companies.

The country has been suffering under recent spates of crimes and the Minister of Defense and Minister of Justice & Police have indicated a willingness to increase security.

• In response to concerns about rising crime rates, Ministers Kenneth Amoksi and Krishna Mathoera announced plans in the National Assembly to boost security measures in Suriname.

• They outlined initiatives including increased police and military presence, enhanced intelligence operations, and collaboration with community organizations.

• These efforts aim to address the surge in robberies and restore public safety.

• Acting President Ronnie Brunswijk assured funding for these initiatives, with Minister Stanley Raghoebarsing detailing the budget allocation. The government is committed to implementing these plans to improve security nationwide.

The opposition, the National Democratic Party of Suriname (NDP), put forward a motion of no-confidence in the national assembly against the government.

• The party is demanding immediate withdrawal of confidence and calling for prompt general elections. The motion accuses the government of failing to deliver on promises made before and after the elections, resulting in a deteriorating situation across various sectors.

• It criticizes the government's lack of transparency, alleged corruption, nepotism, and divisive policies.

• It highlights numerous corruption scandals, failures in foreign policy, and economic mismanagement, including the mishandling of debt restructuring and inflation.

• It also condemns the government's response to protests and its handling of social and economic issues, such as healthcare and education.

• Furthermore, the motion questions the government's commitment to democracy and the rule of law, citing instances of alleged violations of legal procedures and democratic norms.

• The NDP calls on Parliament to revoke confidence in the president and urges the government to hold new elections promptly.

• The motion underscores widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration's performance and its perceived failure to address pressing issues facing the country.

• The National Democratic Party was previously in government under which Suriname suffered a massive economic crisis under the leadership of former President, Desi Bouterse, who is now on the run for his crimes regarding the December 8 murders.