– TIP, piracy among issues discussed at meeting
Human trafficking and piracy were among issues discussed by a delegation of Surinamese politicians headed by their House Speaker when they met members of the foreign relations committee of Guyana last Friday.
Shortly after stepping out of a meeting with members of the Guyana Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Foreign Relations, Speaker Raphael Trotman and parliamentarians, Surinamese Speaker Dr Jennifer Geerlings-Simons told Guyana Times International that meetings attended have proved to be fruitful.
She explained that issues common to both countries were placed on the table, such as human trafficking and piracy. Just last month, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Surinamese National Army renewed their commitment to combat trans-border crimes through joint operations in the Corentyne River.
The modality of this joint venture is yet to be finalised; however, it is anticipated that the GDF Coast Guard and the Surinamese Navy will begin operations within the next six months in the Corentyne River. Together, they will clamp down on piracy, human and drug trafficking, and firearm smuggling, in addition to illegal fishing.
But besides tackling issues, Dr Geerlings-Simons said the meetings have thus far focused on positive cooperation in the area of agriculture and the establishment of a Guyana-Suriname Association. She expressed satisfaction in being in Guyana, reiterating that the visit has proven to be a success.
In comments to the media, her local counterpart echoed similar sentiments, noting that parties are seeking to establish firm associations to share common issues and development.
Dr Geerlings-Simons is accompanied by a team of 11 officers.
Her three-day visit came in response to an invitation by Speaker Trotman. He is hoping to establish a Guyana-Suriname Association to enhance relations between the nations’ parliaments and peoples.
Dr Geerlings-Simons and her delegation have made courtesy calls on the president, prime minister, ministers of government, the leader of the opposition, and the leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC). They also met with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Committee and members of the Parliamentary Management Committee.
