Yesterday evening (June 5, 2023) in Paramaribo, the cultural festival commemorating the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Suriname was witnessed by the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname.
Speaking at the gathering in Paramaribo’s Independence Square, the President highlighted the significance of celebrating the 150th anniversary of Indians’ arrival in Suriname, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s history. On this day in 1873, the first group of Indians arrived aboard the ship Lalla Rookh, heralding a new chapter for Suriname.
The President acknowledged Suriname as a multicultural society and a land of opportunities that has welcomed diverse communities, fostering unity and inclusiveness. She praised the people of Suriname for their dedication and commitment to creating a harmonious society.
The President expressed her joy at the Indian diaspora’s enduring connection to their roots, despite geographical distances, time zones, and cultural diversity. Over the past 150 years, the Indian community has become an integral part of Surinamese society and a crucial pillar of the deepening partnership between India and Suriname.
While Suriname celebrates its ancestral legacy and ties with India, the President assured Suriname of India’s solidarity and reverence. She announced the Indian government’s decision to extend the eligibility criteria for the OCI Card, granting it to descendants up to the sixth generation of the original Indian immigrants who arrived in Suriname. Emphasizing the significance of the OCI card in their 150-year-old relationship with India, she encouraged the Indian diaspora to maintain their connections.
The President highlighted the common experiences of Suriname and India in rebuilding their economies and social systems after colonial rule, fostering a sense of solidarity. She underscored the India-Suriname bilateral relations’ foundation based on shared aspirations for development.
Earlier in the day, the President paid homage to the Baba and Mai monument, representing the 1st Indian man and woman who set foot in Suriname. She also paid her respects at the Mama Sranan monument, symbolizing Mother Suriname embracing her five children, representing the country’s five ethnicities, with care and affection.
At the Presidential Palace, President Murmu received the highest civilian honor of Suriname, the ‘Grand Order of the Chain of the Yellow Star,’ conferred by President Santokhi. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her, acknowledging its significance not only for herself but also for the 1.4 billion people of India. She dedicated the honor to the successive generations of the Indian-Surinamese community, who have played a vital role in strengthening the brotherly ties between the two countries.
The President also attended a luncheon banquet hosted by President Santokhi in her honor. In her speech, she emphasized India’s inclusive approach to a world order that respects the legitimate interests and concerns of every country and region. She highlighted India’s support to over 100 countries during the Covid-19 pandemic as an expression of solidarity.
The President noted India’s presidency of the G-20, which aims to build stronger bridges with both developing countries and advanced economies. Additionally, India organized the Voice of South Summit in January, with the participation of 125 countries from the Global South, to amplify the concerns and interests of developing countries. She commended Suriname for being part of this initiative.
