Guyana co-operation, economic

integration

THE Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) has welcomed the recent engagement between Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, President of the Republic of Suriname and His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, who described the discussions as a positive and encouraging signal for the future of bilateral co-operation, trade, private sector engagement, and regional integration between the two

neighbouring countries.

Following the meeting, President Geerlings-Simons noted that discussions focused on “the further strengthening of socio-economic co-operation between Suriname and Guyana,” including collaboration in oil and gas, fisheries, and navigation on the Corentyne/Corantijn River, the release said adding that Her Excellency further stated that both countries “will also actively involve the private sector in further co-operation processes.”

President Ali similarly emphasised the importance of deepening bilateral ties, noting the countries’ “shared commitment in deepening our partnership and friendship to ensure further economic co-operation, expansion of trade, and integration of our economies.”

For SGCC, the statements reflect the growing recognition that Suriname and Guyana are uniquely positioned to build a stronger and more connected economic corridor through sustained co-operation, improved connectivity, and greater private sector engagement, the release said.

It added that as a bilateral business support organisation operating across both markets, SGCC believes that continued dialogue and practical co-operation between Suriname and Guyana are essential to creating a more predictable, connected, and opportunity-driven environment for businesses operating within the corridor.

For SGCC members and the wider private sector, stronger bilateral engagement can help unlock greater cross-border trade, investment facilitation, joint ventures, logistics and supply chain opportunities, improved market access, and deeper regional value chain integration across key sectors driving growth in both economies.

According to the release, the Chamber particularly welcomes the recognition of the private sector as an active stakeholder in future co-operation efforts and remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen business-to-business engagement, cross-border partnerships, and regional integration between Guyana and Suriname.