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Guyana protests Suriname’s river charges
…warns of threat to trade and cooperation
President Irfaan Ali and his counterpart, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, President of Suriname
Kaieteur News – Guyana has formally objected to new charges reportedly imposed by Suriname for the use of the Corentyne River, with President Irfaan Ali calling the move a troubling disruption to cross-border commerce.
He also warns that the fees impacting key sectors like timber and quarrying risk undermining long-standing bilateral arrangements and eroding business confidence between the two neighbours.
Below is the full statement by President Ali
It has been brought to my attention that the authorities in the Republic of Suriname have instituted charges for the use of the Corentyne River, particularly affecting timber and quarry operators. These reports, represent a troubling development that has implications for economic activities and the long-standing arrangements between Guyana and Suriname.
The Government of Guyana has formally lodged a protest with the Surinamese authorities on this matter and we are currently awaiting a response. We have raised our concerns in the spirit of dialogue and mutual respect, mindful of the importance of preserving the cooperative and friendly relations between our countries.
It is my sincere hope that, in the interest of sustaining and strengthening bilateral trade, fostering private sector development, and upholding the principles of good neighbourly relations, the Government of Suriname will give urgent attention to this issue. Measures of this nature risk creating unnecessary barriers to commerce and could undermine the confidence of businesses that rely on predictable and fair operating conditions.
I wish to remind the Government of Suriname that Surinamese businesses and investors have long benefited from opportunities within our economy, where they have operated without discrimination or undue restriction. This openness has been a cornerstone of our engagement.
Reciprocity remains a fundamental principle underpinning our relationship. We therefore expect that the Surinamese authorities will reconsider and ultimately desist from any actions that may be perceived as arbitrary or detrimental to the shared objective of deepening cooperation. Such steps are essential to ensuring that our relations continue to be guided by mutual respect and good neighborliness.
— His Excellency President Irfaan Ali
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