On June 6, 2023, during her visit to Suriname, President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, delivered a speech to members of the Indian community at a reception hosted by the Indian Ambassador to Suriname, Dr Shankar Balachandran, in Paramaribo. The evening began with a two-minute silence to mourn the lives lost in a rail accident in Balasore, Odisha.
In her address, President Murmu emphasized that although India and Suriname are geographically distant, they share a deep bond through their common history and heritage. Suriname and its people hold a special place in the hearts of Indians. The President expressed her delight in the Indian diaspora’s significant contributions to Suriname’s economic, political, and social development, commending their achievements in various fields. India takes immense pride in the accomplishments of the Indo-Surinamese community and their role in shaping Suriname’s progress.
The President highlighted that the Indian community serves as a bridge of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. She expressed her confidence that they would continue working diligently in their respective domains, further enhancing the unique relationship between India and Suriname.
President Murmu acknowledged India’s current transformational journey, characterized by the development of new infrastructure to keep pace with rapid growth. India strives to take a global lead in areas such as the digital economy, emerging technologies, climate change action, and the establishment of a knowledge society. The international community recognizes India’s remarkable economic resilience. The President affirmed India’s willingness to share its experiences and support Suriname in its pursuit of progress and development.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu visited the Lalla Rookh Museum, Arya Dewaker Mandir, and Vishnu Mandir. She paid her respects at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and the monument of ‘Gevallen Helden 1902’ in Paramaribo, demonstrating India’s reverence for historical figures and shared values.
Later in the evening, the President departed for Belgrade, marking the final leg of her state visit, which included both Suriname and Serbia.
