Address by the President of the Republic of Suriname, H.E. Runaldo Ronald Venetiaan, on the occasion of the New Year’s Reception, on Thursday, 6 March 2003

Mr. Speaker of the National Assembly,
Members of the Council of Ministers,
Members of the National Assembly,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Members of the Corps of Honorary Consuls,
Representatives of International Organizations and Institutions,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,


It is a great pleasure for me to bid you heartily welcome at this reception. I assure you that your attendance at this gathering that is especially intended for representatives of the countries and organizations Suriname maintains friendly relations with, is deeply appreciated by me.

The past year 2002 was characterized by the threat of international terrorism and deteriorating international economic conditions. The ensuing adverse effects have not left Suriname unaffected. At great sacrifice and with strict budgetary discipline, our society has managed to keep going and succeeded in further improving its creditworthiness at international level.

I am afraid we have to note that worldwide the new year 2003 does not show any signs yet of economic redress and that we have no reason to imagine ourselves in a peaceful and safe international environment.

Quite the contrary. The lives of large groups of people are at risk as a consequence of a serious threat of war against Iraq that has divided the world into pro-war activists and peace activists. Unfortunately it appears that in the year 2003 we are still living in a world in which weapons of destruction have to be used as a means to guarantee peace and security.

We should realize that we live in a world with growing interdependence among states and that therefore dialogue at multilateral level must be encouraged. If we really aspire after a peaceful world in which our interests may be promoted in a peaceful manner through dialogue, we should strengthen the institutions that create the enabling environment therefore and consistently respect the law of nations. In this respect, Suriname is solidly behind the United Nations and where possible, my country will make its contribution to further strengthen this institution. Suriname supports UN Resolution 1441 and insists that Iraq carry out this Resolution in an acceptable manner such that war will be held off and the life of innocent people spared.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the international economic level, it must be noted that the pressure of the threat of war has caused a further worsening of international economic conditions. The increasing oil price on the world market is a clear sign of the insecurity in the world.

Developing countries, such as Suriname, which are incapable of building up large oil reserves and so control oil prices at the national level, already face serious distortions in their economy which, if prolonged, can lead to balance of payments difficulties and affect the competitiveness of the economy.

It is important that the international community take into account that this category of developing countries which already in normal times face serious difficulties, will not be able in the ongoing crisis to sufficiently continue social programmes for the benefit of vulnerable groups. Hence I should like to call on the international community to realize that as a result of the ongoing crisis these countries deserve their attention and that an adequate response in the matter is imperative.

As regards Suriname’s foreign policy, rest assured that we still adhere to our traditional principles of good neighbourliness, the furtherance of peace and security in the region and throughout the world, and the conciliation of differences through dialogue.

This year as well, Suriname will endeavour to further deepen its relations with neighbour countries and other countries in the region and in the world, on the basis of friendship and cooperation. Let me assure you that Suriname highly values the good friendly relations with the countries, organizations and institutions you represent, and is prepared to work together with you, where possible.

This year as well we count on your indispensable contribution that we may continue the fight against the underworld, which is involved in the drug trade, human trafficking and arms smuggling. Cooperation is equally important in the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and poverty.

Suriname sets great store by the process of regional integration and will continue on the path to gaining a worthy place in the regional economic and political structures, such as CARICOM, including the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), the ACS, the OAS and Mercosur. With regard to the F.T.A.A., the small economies in the hemisphere will have to be facilitated to be able to survive within the F.T.A.A.

Suriname will continue to strengthen its relations with the countries and organizations in Europe. At EU/ACP level, we will actively participate in negotiations that are to result in European Partnership Agreements.

We will also maintain and expand the good relations with our countries of origin.

In conclusion, I wish to express heartfelt thanks to all of you for your dedication and contribution to the good cooperative relations between Suriname and your respective countries, organizations and institutions.

May I invite you to raise your glasses and join me in a toast to the fruitful continuation of cooperation aimed at promoting peace, security and prosperity for our peoples.

Thank you.

 

© Copyright Kabinet van de President