Diplomatic Relations
The relationship between India and Suriname formally began in 1976 when the two countries established diplomatic ties. This marked a significant step towards enhanced collaboration, particularly in areas of mutual interest. One year later, in 1977, India took a further step by opening its embassy in Paramaribo, Suriname's capital. In response to this gesture of goodwill, Suriname established its embassy in New Delhi in the year 2000, solidifying the diplomatic presence of both nations. Additionally, Suriname has appointed an honorary consul in Bangalore, which indicates a growing interest in facilitating business and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Joint Cooperation and Support
To further augment bilateral relations, the Suriname-India Joint Commission was created in September 1992. This commission focuses on strengthening cooperation across both the public and private sectors, enabling collaborative efforts in diverse fields such as trade, investment, and technology. Notably, since 1998, the Surinamese government has supported India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This mutual backing demonstrates a shared vision regarding global governance and representation on the international stage.
Presidential Visits and Agreements
A significant milestone in Indo-Surinamese relations occurred during the visit of Suriname's then-President R.R. Venetiaan to India from March 16 to 20, 2003. This visit was characterized by high-level meetings with Indian President A.P.J. Kalam and Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. During these discussions, both leaders made substantial progress in fostering bilateral ties, culminating in the signing of agreements that covered diverse areas such as agriculture and cultural cooperation. An important economic gesture during this visit was India's extension of a $10 million line of credit to Suriname, aimed at promoting development and infrastructure projects.
Visa Accessibility
In the sphere of travel and cultural exchange, a significant policy change was introduced on March 1, 2016, when India granted visa-on-arrival to Indian citizens visiting Suriname. This policy not only simplifies travel but also encourages tourism and business ventures, further enhancing the interpersonal ties between citizens of both nations. These measures reflect an ongoing commitment to fostering goodwill and cooperation through enhanced connectivity.
Overall, India and Suriname share a multifaceted partnership that continues to evolve, focusing on cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and mutual support on international platforms. As both countries work toward strengthening their relationship, they aim to create lasting impacts in various sectors that benefit their respective societies.
Economic Relations
The economic relationship between India and Suriname has seen notable developments over the years, with bilateral trade reaching approximately USD 228.49 million during the fiscal year 2014-15. This trade encompasses a diverse range of commodities exchanged between the two nations. India exports a variety of goods to Suriname, including machinery, iron and steel, electrical equipment, pharmaceutical products, textiles, and vehicles. Additionally, Indian exports also include agricultural products such as coffee, tea, and spices, along with rubber, paper, tobacco, organic chemicals, furniture, carpets, ceramic goods, footwear, and printed books. This wide array of exports highlights India's manufacturing capabilities and its role as a significant supplier of diverse products to the Surinamese market.
On the other hand, Suriname primarily exports wood, aluminum, and electrical machinery to India. The export figures indicate a dynamic growth in trade, particularly demonstrated by the trends from 2016 to 2020. For instance, Suriname's exports to India saw a substantial increase from USD 45.92 million in 2016-17 to USD 111.94 million in 2018-19, before experiencing a drop to USD 55.07 million in 2019-20. Meanwhile, Indian imports saw fluctuations as well. After an increase to USD 17.38 million in 2017-18, imports from India spiked significantly in 2019-20, reaching USD 31.12 million.
This evolving trade relationship signifies not only the mutual economic interests but also the potential for further collaboration in sectors such as trade, investment, and technology transfer. Both nations can look towards strengthening their economic ties by exploring new opportunities in various industries, particularly in fields like renewable energy, mining, information technology, and pharmaceuticals, enhancing their economic resilience and growth prospects. As trade continues to diversify, enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement between India and Suriname could unlock greater potential benefits for both countries in the years to come.
India's Foreign Aid to Suriname
India has played an active role in providing foreign aid to Suriname, underscoring the importance of this bilateral relationship. The assistance began in 1992 with the extension of the first line of credit (LOC), which amounted to ₹5 crore, approximately equivalent to ₹38 crore or US$4.6 million in 2023. Since then, several LOCs have been established, aimed at aiding Suriname in various infrastructure and development projects. This financial support speaks to India's commitment to fostering development in Suriname through strategic investment.
An important step in India's aid strategy was the US$10 million line of credit extended in 2003. This funding was utilized for significant projects, including the renovation of water pumping stations, the establishment of a steel rolling mill, and the provision of 14 heavy hydraulic excavators. These initiatives not only addressed urgent infrastructural needs but also contributed to the economic growth and sustainability of Suriname. Following this, a third LOC of $16 million was granted specifically to the Suriname Electricity Board, aimed at constructing a crucial 161 KV, 55 km-long power transmission line connecting Paranam and Paramaribo, enhancing the region's electrical infrastructure.
In further efforts to bolster Suriname’s capabilities, India has supplied a variety of equipment including bulldozers, trucks, excavators, communication equipment, and solar lanterns. Additionally, a fourth LOC worth $10.4 million was allocated to the Ministry of Public Works of Suriname, focused on the establishment of further pumping stations to enhance water management. Other significant contributions include a US$4.3 million grant for fire tenders manufactured by BEML India and coastal equipment networks worth $2.946 million from BEL. This breadth of support highlights India’s commitment to aiding Suriname in multiple sectors critical to its development.
In March 2015, India provided three HAL Chetak helicopters to the Surinamese military, valued at $13.5 million, indicating a strengthening of defense ties between the countries. Moreover, India allocated funds such as $311,567 to upgrade the morgue at the Lands Hospital in Paramaribo and $169,400 to the Institute for Natural Resources and Engineering Studies (NATIN). This broader assistance reflects India's dedication not only to infrastructure and economic initiatives but also to health and education improvements in Suriname.
The relationship between India and Suriname continues to deepen with ongoing collaboration. In 2019, during the 5th Joint Commission meeting, India announced a $50 million grant of aid to Suriname, addressing various developmental needs. Additionally, citizens of Suriname are eligible for scholarships under programs such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, as well as opportunities through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. These educational initiatives are essential for fostering people-to-people ties and enhancing mutual understanding, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
Cultural Relations
The cultural ties between India and Suriname date back to the arrival of Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century. In 1978, the Indian Cultural Centre was established in Suriname to foster and promote Indian culture among the Indo-Surinamese community and the broader population. By providing formal training in Hindi, Kathak, yoga, and Indian classical music, the Centre plays a crucial role in maintaining cultural heritage. As of December 2016, the Centre has nurtured approximately 80 voluntary Hindi schools throughout the country, highlighting the commitment to preserving the language and culture within a diverse societal framework.
Musical traditions play a significant role in the cultural landscape of Suriname, particularly through the genre known as Baithak Gana. Originating from the Indo-Surinamese community, Baithak Gana is not just a musical style but also represents a social gathering, known as "Baithak," where friends and families come together to celebrate and enjoy music. This genre is characterized by a blend of Bhojpuri folk songs and Caribbean influences, creating a unique sound that resonates with the local population. Baithak Gana bears similarities to Chutney music, which emerged in Trinidad and Tobago, further illustrating the interconnectedness of Caribbean and Indian musical traditions.
Among the most celebrated artists in the Baithak Gana genre are Ramdew Chaitoe, Dropati, and Desi Raghosing. These performers have played a pivotal role in popularizing this music style and have contributed to the cultural richness of Suriname's diverse society. Their work not only entertains but serves as a vital connection to Indian heritage, encouraging younger generations to embrace their roots while navigating a modern world. The ongoing exchange of cultural practices through music, dance, language, and festivals continues to strengthen the bonds between India and Suriname, ensuring that this rich tapestry of cultural identity remains vibrant and relevant.
Indo-Surinamese Community
Indo-Surinamese individuals represent the largest ethnic group in Suriname, comprising approximately 27.4% of the nation’s total population. According to the 2012 Census of Suriname, there are about 148,443 citizens of Indian descent. This ethnic group had a more significant presence as reflected in the 1972 Census, where they constituted 37.6% of the population. However, a notable shift occurred around the time of Suriname’s independence on 25 November 1975, when a substantial number of Indo-Surinamese chose to emigrate to the Netherlands. This emigration trend has resulted in a marked decline in the local Indian community within Suriname.
The migration of Indians to Suriname can be traced back to the British Raj era when many Indians were dispatched to British colonies as laborers. Following the abolition of slavery in Suriname, the Dutch government sought to address labor shortages by entering into a recruitment agreement with the United Kingdom. This led to a significant influx of Indian indentured laborers beginning in 1873, primarily from regions in modern-day India such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. These laborers helped sustain the agricultural economy of Suriname, particularly in sugar cane plantations, and their cultural and social influences remain embedded in Surinamese society today.
The strong presence of the Indo-Surinamese community in Suriname has fostered a desire among some members to retain ties to their ancestral homeland. Consequently, nearly 400 applications for Overseas Citizenship of India are submitted annually by Surinamese citizens of Indian origin. This trend reflects the ongoing connection many Indo-Surinamese feel towards India, despite being several generations removed from their ancestral roots. The cultural legacy of the Indian migrants is evident in Suriname's festivals, cuisine, and religious practices, showcasing a unique blend of heritage that enriches the nation’s cultural landscape.
Overall, the Indo-Surinamese community exemplifies the historical migrations and cultural intersections that have shaped Suriname's diverse society. The enduring ties to India not only influence individual identities but also enhance the bilateral relations between India and Suriname, paving the way for collaboration in various spheres such as culture, economy, and politics.
Relations with India
The diplomatic relationship between Suriname and India has witnessed significant development over the years, underscored by an important meeting on January 9, 2017, where Vice President Ashwin Adhin engaged with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bengaluru, India. During this dynamic discourse, they explored avenues to bolster economic and technological cooperation between the two nations, recognizing the strengths and potentials that lie in Suriname. Adhin articulated the opportunities available in various sectors such as agriculture, animal husbandry, palm oil production, wood processing, as well as extractive industries including gold, crude oil, and bauxite mining. These discussions are vital as they aim to establish a framework for sustainable growth and mutual benefit.
Adhin's vision extends into the healthcare sector, particularly with his plans to establish a chair on Ayurveda at the University of Suriname and the National Institute for Natural and Holistic Therapies, in collaboration with Indian institutions. This initiative represents a significant step towards integrating traditional Indian medicine with Suriname’s healthcare system. The proposed establishment of medicinal plantations, research laboratories, and factories for the production of Ayurvedic products would not only cater to the local Surinamese market but also have the potential to extend distribution throughout Latin American countries and Caribbean islands. This objective aligns with the Surinamese government's commitment to diversify its economy and elevate healthcare as a top priority, further supported by the Government's Health in All Policies (HIAP) program.
Vice President Ashwin Adhin, being a distinguished young leader of Indian descent, has also played a pivotal role in enhancing cultural ties within the diaspora. His participation as a keynote speaker at the Youth Privasi Bharatiya Divas Convention on January 7, 2016, showcased his engagement with the Indian community abroad. This convention, which serves as a significant platform for the global Indian Diaspora, was part of the broader Privasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) events held from January 8-9, 2017, in Bengaluru.
Additionally, Adhin has publicly supported India’s decision to revoke Article 370 concerning Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting his advocacy for India’s policies on the international stage. Such positions underscore the strong diplomatic rapport between Suriname and India, highlighting a shared commitment to peace, development, and the strengthening of cultural ties. The relationship continues to evolve, promising further collaboration in various sectors that benefit both nations.