External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in Suriname on May 6, 2026, marking the second leg of his three-nation diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening India’s engagement with Caribbean countries. He was received in Paramaribo by Suriname’s Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva, highlighting the importance both sides place on the visit.
Jaishankar described the welcome as a warm gesture and expressed his intent to hold productive discussions with Suriname’s leadership. His meetings are expected to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation across sectors such as trade, development, and capacity building.
This visit follows his earlier trip to Jamaica, where India announced a series of development initiatives to support the island nation. These include the supply of 30 dialysis units, 40 motorized fishing boats, and 200 GPS devices to aid economic recovery efforts after Hurricane Melissa. Additionally, India provided 10 emergency medical units to strengthen healthcare preparedness.
During his Jamaica visit from May 2 to May 4, Jaishankar held high-level discussions with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith. The two sides signed three agreements covering health cooperation, renewable energy, and broadcasting, while also reviewing progress in digital transformation, culture, and sports collaboration.
India also reiterated its commitment to capacity building through expanded training programs and scholarships, along with digital learning platforms aimed at skill development. Jamaica expressed support for India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council for the 2028 to 2029 term.
The Ministry of External Affairs noted that India’s relationship with Caribbean nations is deeply rooted in historical and cultural ties, particularly through the Girmitiya communities—descendants of Indian indentured laborers who settled in the region during the 19th century.
Jaishankar’s ongoing tour will conclude with a visit to Trinidad and Tobago, where further engagements are planned to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation. The trip reflects India’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships with Caribbean nations through development support, cultural connections, and shared global interests.
