Paramaribo, May 8: Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a fruit processing facility in Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, on Thursday. This facility was established with financial assistance from India.
India has provided fruit processing machinery to Suriname, funded under a $1 million grant for small and medium enterprises announced by Jaishankar in 2025. He emphasized that this project signifies India’s partnership with Suriname and the Global South.
Jaishankar stated that India’s philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ meaning “the world is one family,” is not merely a phrase but is demonstrated through real projects and initiatives. This facility serves as a prime example.
He further assured that as Suriname progresses towards development and prosperity, India will remain a reliable partner.
The event was attended by Suriname’s Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva and Agriculture Minister Niké Noersalim.
Jaishankar noted that this project, supported by India, is a step towards value addition and self-reliance. It underscores India’s role as a trusted development partner for Suriname.
He also met with Michael Ashwin Adhin, the President of Suriname’s National Assembly, where they discussed cooperation across various sectors. They acknowledged the importance of parliamentary exchanges between the two democracies.
On the same day, he visited the Lala Rukh Museum, which showcases the heritage of Surinamese people who migrated from India.
He expressed on social media platform X, “The courage and struggle of the Girmitiya people continue to inspire future generations and form the foundation of our strong friendship.”
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