SURINAME’S Albert Ramdin has gained the overwhelming support of one of the region’s biggest governing bodies, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). In a recent press release, the Caribbean powerhouse stated their support for Ramdin in his race for Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS).

At the Twentieth Special Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) CARICOM reaffirmed its unwavering support for the candidature of Ramdin, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Co-operation of the Republic of Suriname, for the period 2025-2030, at elections to be held in March 2025.
The release further added that CARICOM recognises the OAS as a vital institution for promoting peace, security, democracy, development, and human rights in the Americas.
Moreover, CARICOM emphasised that the OAS has played a crucial role in advancing regional co-operation, addressing common challenges, and fostering a shared vision for the Western Hemisphere.

The statement further emphasised Minister Ramdin’s distinguished regional and international leadership roles, coupled with his diplomatic acumen, demonstrated competence, and unwavering dedication to the OAS.

It went on to add that Minister Ramdin had been a part of the OAS previously where he served two terms as Assistant Secretary-General, this renders him the ideal choice to guide the organisation towards a future characterised by strengthened collaboration and enhanced dialogue among Member States.

Born in Suriname in 1958, Ramdin is a seasoned diplomat with a career spanning various roles in Suriname’s government, including advisory positions to ministers of Trade, Foreign Affairs, and Finance. His experience extends beyond national borders, having served as Suriname’s Ambassador to the OAS and Costa Rica, and later as Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign Relations at CARICOM. Throughout his career, Ramdin has been instrumental in strengthening regional co-operation, particularly in trade and development.

Educated in the Netherlands, where he specialised in the economic challenges of developing countries, Ramdin has consistently applied his expertise to address issues crucial to small states in the region. His involvement in major hemispheric summits and initiatives has further solidified his reputation as a key figure in inter-American relations.

CARICOM expressed confidence that Ramdin’s firm commitment to the principles and purposes of the OAS Charter and to working collectively will build a more united and prosperous hemisphere. His extensive experience and continued significance in regional affairs make him a strong contender for the role of OAS Secretary-General.

Albert R. Ramdin was previously elected OAS Assistant Secretary General on June 7, 2005, and took office on July 19 of that year. Prior to his election to the OAS, the Surinamese diplomat served as Ambassador at Large and Special Adviser to the Government of the Republic of Suriname on Western Hemispheric Affairs, further demonstrating his long-standing commitment to regional co-operation and development.