India has dispatched machinery worth $1 million to Suriname as part of its development partnership, aiming to support the growth of the country’s passion fruit industry and strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.
The Indian Embassy in Suriname confirmed the shipment, stating, “Strengthening India-Suriname development partnership. Machinery to support the development of the passion fruit industry, under the grant of USD 1 million, was dispatched today to Suriname. Development Partnership between India and Suriname continues to grow.”
The grant will contribute to the expansion of Suriname’s markoesa (passion fruit) industry, reinforcing India’s commitment to fostering economic and agricultural growth in the country.
Deepening India-Suriname Ties
India and Suriname have been strengthening their bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. On November 21, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Suriname’s President Chandrikapersad ‘Chan’ Santokhi on the sidelines of the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown. The leaders reviewed ongoing projects and explored ways to expand collaboration in key areas such as defense, security, trade, agriculture, digital initiatives (including UPI), healthcare, traditional medicine, and capacity building.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the importance of enhancing economic ties, stating, “Both leaders reviewed progress on partnership and agreed to expand bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including cultural and people-to-people engagements.”
Humanitarian Assistance from India
Prior to this, on November 17, 2024, India dispatched 425 MT of foodgrains and other essential edible items to Suriname as part of its Social Welfare Programme, reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian aid.
“Advancing India-Suriname ties! Fulfilling India’s commitment to support the Government of Suriname through the supply of food grains and other edible items for their Social Welfare Programme. The first consignment of approximately 425 MT left India today for Paramaribo,” Jaiswal announced on X (formerly Twitter).
India’s recent initiatives highlight its long-standing commitment to Suriname’s economic growth and social development, paving the way for stronger bilateral relations.