Thursday marked the culmination of the various meetings in Suriname within the framework of the commercial mission led by Minister of Economy, Geoffrey Wever.
Maria Dijkhoff-Pita, Director of Economic Affairs, explained that the mission was highly fruitful. She held several conversations with different ministries in Suriname, which she considered very positive.
She highlighted the opportunity to collaborate with Suriname, a country with much to offer, while also noting that Aruba has knowledge it can share with Suriname. The commercial delegation had several meetings with American companies, leaving them quite satisfied.
Furthermore, Dijkhoff-Pita mentioned opportunities for doing business with these companies. She believes they achieved much success during this mission. She emphasized the potential for Surinamese and Aruban cooperation as one of the highlights of her visit.
She stressed that the mission is a great opportunity for both Aruba and Suriname. She discussed logistics companies to improve product transportation to Aruba, which she sees as an excellent opportunity.
Maria also extended an invitation for a Surinamese delegation to visit our island, which she considered a significant moment of her mission. She also invited the people of Aruba to visit Suriname. She announced that the President of Suriname will visit Aruba in October and expressed her desire to continue these meetings.
Regarding a possible agreement, Maria indicated that Minister Wever proposed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize collaboration between the two countries.
On the question of specific agreements, the Director of Economic Affairs confirmed that some traders have already signed contracts. Although she wasn’t able to provide exact details on the traders involved, she acknowledged the importance for the success of future commercial missions.
It may be that this year there won’t be another specific mission planned, but there are plans for another mission in the future. Missions take time, preparation, and also cost money.
Regarding a possible destination for the next commercial mission, Maria Dijkhoff-Pieter indicated that she leaves that decision to Minister Geoffrey Wever.
