During a meeting in Beijing on Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname expressed mutual interest in deepening economic and trade cooperation, aiming to bolster the strategic partnership between their nations for the benefit of both peoples.
This year marks the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the strategic cooperative partnership between China and Suriname. Santokhi’s visit is seen as a significant opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation, injecting new momentum into relations between China and Latin American and Caribbean countries, according to analysts.
President Xi warmly welcomed President Santokhi, noting the significance of his visit as the first by a Latin American and Caribbean head of state to China this year. He expressed appreciation for Suriname’s friendship and unwavering support on issues crucial to China’s core interests.
Xi affirmed China’s commitment to strengthening exchanges at various levels and expanding cooperation in governance, highlighting the long-standing history of friendly exchanges between the two countries.
President Santokhi emphasized the fruitful cooperation between Suriname and China in various fields, which has contributed significantly to Suriname’s economic development and improved livelihoods. He expressed Suriname’s dedication to enhancing relations with China and contributing actively to the development of Caribbean countries’ ties with China.
Santokhi’s state visit coincides with a busy period in China’s diplomacy, with leaders and officials from various countries visiting. Wang Youming, director of the Institute of Developing Countries at the China Institute of International Studies, noted that Suriname, like other South American nations, seeks expanded cooperation with China to address economic challenges.
Amid China’s growing role in the region, agreements signed during Santokhi’s visit are expected to boost Suriname’s exports to China and foster people-to-people exchanges. President Xi also expressed China’s openness to more high-quality Surinamese products entering the Chinese market and reiterated readiness to deepen Belt and Road cooperation with Suriname.
Following the meeting, the two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple cooperation agreements spanning economy, trade, green development, digital economy, and education sectors.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been a focal point of collaboration between China and Suriname, with Santokhi highlighting its role in regional connectivity and economic cooperation. The upcoming China-CELAC summit will further bolster exchanges between China and Latin American and Caribbean countries, signaling a promising future for cooperation under the BRI.
Analysts noted a shifting dynamic in the region, with countries seeking greater autonomy and cooperation based on mutual interests. Despite US concerns, Latin American and Caribbean nations are increasingly inclined to engage with China and other global partners to pursue development independently.