Suriname, Guyana in energy cooperation says outgoing Ambassador

Last Updated on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 16:13 by Writer

Suriname and Guyana are cooperating in various aspects of energy ranging from fossil fuels to renewable energy, Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana Liselle Blankendal said Saturday night.

“Our energy cooperation is moving forward with joint efforts in oil and gas, renewable energy and electricity interconnection to support sustainable growth,” she said in addressing a reception at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown to mark Suriname’s 50th independence anniversary and 50th year of diplomatic relations with Guyana.

Guyana and Suriname have been examining ways of jointly benefitting from a natural gas field that spans their border. A top official of Suriname’s state-owned oil company, Staatsolie, had said that one of the major sticking points would be the different production sharing agreements in each country.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Blankendal said Suriname and Guyana could use their natural and renewable strengths to “drive renewable energy, climate resilience and green innovation and ensuring shared, inclusive prosperity.”

Ms Blankendal, a career diplomat, also said trade between the two neighbouring countries has increased.

She also highlighted joint action that was being taken in tourism, recalling that the tourism authorities of Guyana and Suriname met in July, 2025 and signed a memorandum of understanding. “This agreement sets the stage for joint promotion, sustainable travel and cultural exchanges, recognising that Guyana and Suriname, together, form one of the most unique and un-spoilt tourism destinations in the region and I would like to say in the world,” she said.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Mark Phillips said in recent years Guyana and Suriname have set an example for the region and the world showing that neighbours can collaborate meaningfully for shared development. “Whether in energy, infrastructure, trade, security or people-to-people connection, our cooperation reflects the maturity and trust that our leaders have worked tirelessly to build and maintain,” he said.

He said Guyana recommits to work together to transform the Guyana-Suriname corridor to a model for regional integration, deepen collaboration in food and energy security, climate resilience and sustainable development.

Announcing the end of her diplomatic tenure in Guyana, the Suriname envoy reflected on aspects of Guyanese Christmas and New Year traditions, proclaiming that she loves Guyana. “Serving in Guyana in this beautiful country has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Did I love Guyana? Absolutely! Would I miss Guyana? Without doubt. Will I return to Guyana? Of course, I will,” she said.

She is the co-founder of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce and a long-serving Rotarian.