Ravi discusses bilateral ties with Surinamese leaders

New Delhi, June 6 (UNI) India and Suriname today decided to step up their economic, trade and bilateral ties as Overseas Indian Affairs MInister Vayalar Ravi held a series of meetings with the leaders of that country.

During his visit to Suriname, Mr Ravi held discussions with President Runaldo Ronald Venetiaan, Vice President Ramdien Sardjoe and National Assembly Chairman Paul Somohardjo on matters of bilateral importance.

President Venetiaan recalled the sacrifices of the ancestors of Surinamese Indians, saying that they have laid the foundation for a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.

Vice President Sardjoe, who is himself a Person of Indian Origin (PIO), lauded the significant contribution made by the Indian community for the prosperity and unity of the country.

The Speaker also congratulated PIOs of Suriname for having contributed to the well being and prosperity of the country and for having integrated so well into the multi-ethnic fabric of the society.

Mr Ravi also met with Minister of Social Justice and Police Chandrikaprasad Santokhi, Ministers for Home Affairs, Defence, Attorney General, and former Vice President Ajodhia, Members of the Council of States and Assembly and several representatives of the Surinamese Government as well as the Indian community during a lunch function, hosted by the Surinamese government.

On the occasion, Minister Santokhi recalled the cordial bilateral relations between India and Suriname and said there were immense possibilities for further intensification of cooperation.

Several Ministers of the Government drew the attention of Mr Ravi to areas of cooperation where India has been generously supporting technical, educational and cultural cooperation.

In his remarks, Mr Ravi spoke about India's ever growing relations with the Caribbean countries and India's engagement with CARICOM. He said India had been actively supporting the cause of the developing countries.

Commenting that Suriname was rich in land and water resources, he called upon the Government to devise a long term strategy to use its extensive mineral, physical and human resources to play a significant role in the Caribbean region and beyond.

UNI