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March 27, 2026
Suriname’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation said it is operating within its legal rights to charge vessels for use of its waters and noted that Guyana could request an extension of exemptions for certain vessels on the Corentyne River, as Georgetown formally protested the measures.
In a statement on its official Facebook page, the ministry said the charges are consistent with Suriname’s legal framework governing its waterways and that Guyana is free to engage through appropriate channels to seek adjustments.
Guyana has lodged a formal protest, warning that the reported charges could disrupt cross-border economic activity and strain longstanding bilateral arrangements.
President Dr Irfaan Ali described the measures as a “troubling development” affecting timber and quarry operators, with implications for trade and private sector operations.
He said Georgetown had raised its concerns with Paramaribo “in the spirit of dialogue and mutual respect” and is awaiting a response from Surinamese authorities.
Ali warned that the measures risk creating barriers to commerce and undermining business confidence, particularly for operators reliant on predictable conditions along the Corentyne River, a key economic corridor between the two countries.
He also highlighted Guyana’s longstanding openness to Surinamese businesses, noting they have operated locally without discrimination or undue restriction.
“Reciprocity remains a fundamental principle underpinning our relationship,” he said, urging Suriname to reconsider the measures.
Suriname, for its part, said it remains committed to maintaining strong, constructive and future-oriented relations with Guyana and emphasised the importance of dialogue through appropriate channels.
The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of good neighbourliness, transparency, and mutual respect in regional relations.
The Corentyne River has long been a sensitive issue in Guyana-Suriname relations, with both sides historically managing its use through diplomatic engagement.
