Visit from the Resident Coordinator of United Nations Suriname to Surinamese politician

The meeting with the Surinamese Head of State was a courtesy call reaffirming the enduring relationship between Suriname and the UN. During the visit to the President, both officials reflected on their long-standing cooperation. With this first physical meeting between President Santokhi and RC Walter, the importance of continuing this relationship was reconfirmed.

The cooperation between Suriname and the UN is guided by the new development plan of Suriname and the new framework of the UN, the Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF).  The MSDCF is the instrument through which the United Nations supports countries and territories in the Caribbean. The Surinamese government has dedicated itself to the growth of the country and the development of its society. The United Nations wants to be a partner in this and where necessary contribute to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which are anchored in Social, Economic and Environmental sustainable development. It is expected that the partnership between Suriname and UN will continue in each area, using the MSDCF. For the organization, a good cooperation with the Surinamese government is important so that there can be a correct implementation of the common goals laid down in the National Development Plan and the MSDCF.

RC Marina Walter also had several meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation (BIBIS) during her visit including a visit with Minister Albert Ramdin to discuss cooperation between the UN and the Surinamese government. She also had a first meeting with "Joint National Steering Committee" which is responsible for the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Country Implementation Plan. This will be created based on the National Development Plan and the MSCDF. Minister Armand Achaibersing also received a courtesy call from RC Marina Walter given that the Ministry of Finance and Planning is a crucial partner in achieving the SDGs in Suriname.

The UN believes that the Surinamese government has made its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals very clear. These SDGs were developed in 2015 by all 193 member states of the UN, of which Suriname is one. It is a common goal for all partners to achieve these SDGs by 2030. So for all countries, including Suriname, it is a common agenda.