President Irfaan Ali said the Guyana government has formally protested reported charges instituted by authorities in Suriname for the use of the Corentyne River, an issue affecting timber and quarry operators.
The statement was made on March 26, 2026, via the President’s official Facebook page, where he addressed concerns raised about the reported measures and their potential impact on cross-border economic activity between Guyana and Suriname.
“It has been brought to my attention that the authorities in the Republic of Suriname have instituted charges for the use of the Corentyne River, particularly affecting timber and quarry operators,” Ali said.
He said the reports “represent a troubling development that has implications for economic activities and the long-standing arrangements between Guyana and Suriname.”
Ali said Georgetown has engaged Surinamese authorities through formal channels and is awaiting a response.
He added that the concerns were raised “in the spirit of dialogue and mutual respect,” noting the importance of maintaining cooperative relations between the two countries.
Ali said the reported measures could affect trade and private sector activity if not addressed.
“Measures of this nature risk creating unnecessary barriers to commerce and could undermine the confidence of businesses that rely on predictable and fair operating conditions,” he remarked.
He pointed to existing economic engagement, noting that Surinamese businesses have operated in Guyana without restriction.
“I wish to remind the Government of Suriname that Surinamese businesses and investors have long benefited from opportunities within our economy, where they have operated without discrimination or undue restriction,” Ali said.
Ali noted too that Guyana expects the matter to be reviewed in keeping with bilateral principles.
“Reciprocity remains a fundamental principle underpinning our relationship,” he said. “We therefore expect that the Surinamese authorities will reconsider and ultimately desist from any actions that may be perceived as arbitrary or detrimental to the shared objective of deepening cooperation.”
