Map Credit: U.S. State Department.FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
U.S.-SURINAME RELATIONS
Suriname is a valued U.S. partner in working to advance key priorities of both countries. Since the reestablishment of a democratic, elected government in 1991, the United States has maintained positive and mutually beneficial relations with Suriname based on the principles of democracy, respect for human rights, rule of law, and civilian authority over the military. Together the two countries promote democracy and stand up for human rights; enhance the security and prosperity of the region through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative; and help build a stronger and brighter future for all their people through youth empowerment initiatives.
U.S. Assistance to Suriname
To further strengthen civil society and bolster democratic institutions, the U.S. has provided training to military officers and policymakers to promote a better understanding of the role of the military in a civilian government, as well as to improve the professional capabilities of its officers and senior personnel. To assist Suriname in the fight against drugs and associated criminal activity, the U.S. has provided support such as training Surinamese anti-drug squads, police uniform patrol, military police, and customs officials. The U.S. and Suriname also have significant partnerships in fighting trafficking in persons and money laundering.
Since 2000, the U.S. has donated a criminal records database to the police as well as computers, vehicles, and radio equipment. Projects through which the U.S. has supported the judicial system include case management and computer hardware donations. Along with training projects, these programs have led to a strong relationship with law enforcement entities in Suriname. The U.S. also provides assistance and training for disaster preparedness and mitigation as well as significant support for humanitarian aid projects. Peace Corps Suriname works with the national government and local and national groups to encourage healthy lifestyles and sound business practices in the interior and districts of Suriname.
Suriname is densely forested, and increased interest in large-scale commercial logging and mining in Suriname's interior have raised environmental concerns. The U.S. Forest Service, the Smithsonian Institution, and numerous non-governmental environmental organizations have promoted technical cooperation with the Surinamese Government to prevent destruction of the country's tropical rain forest, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. U.S. experts have worked closely with local natural resource officials to encourage sustainable development of the interior and alternatives such as ecotourism.
Bilateral Economic Relations
Suriname's efforts in recent years to liberalize its economic policy created new possibilities for U.S. exports and investments. The U.S. remains one of Suriname's principal trading partners, largely due to ALCOA's longstanding investment in Suriname's bauxite mining and processing industry. Several U.S. corporations, represented by Surinamese firms, are active in Suriname, largely in the mining, consumer goods, and service sectors. Principal U.S. exports to Suriname include chemicals, vehicles, machine parts, meat, and wheat. U.S. consumer products are increasingly available through Suriname's many trading companies. Opportunities for U.S. exporters, service companies, and engineering firms probably will expand over the next decade. Suriname is looking to U.S. and other foreign investors to assist in the commercial development of its vast natural resources and to help finance infrastructure improvements.
Suriname's Membership in International Organizations
Following independence from the Netherlands in 1975, Suriname became a member of the United Nations. In recent years, the country has focused on bolstering its regional relationships. Suriname and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the Organization of American States, Inter-American Development Bank, UN, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund.
