Suriname and Guyana share mutual interest in building bridge across Corentyne River

Head of State David Granger and President of Suriname Desi Bouterse today were engaged in a working meeting to further discuss areas of cooperation agreed upon in July 2016 that are progressing unfavorably.

Inspite of the border issues which Surinamese President Desi Bouterse said is very sensitive to both Guyana and Suriname; the two leaders have expressed interest in the construction of a bridge over the Corentyne River.

Expounding on the construction of the bridge Bouterse said a design was done and studies were undertaken but more still needs to be achieved before the project is undertaken. He said too that Brazil, the EU and China have shown interest in funding this project.

Regarding the working meeting with President David Granger, Bouterse noted that a mechanism will be put in place to ensure results based implementation of projects agreed upon within specific time frames.

Speaking through his interpreter the Surinamese Leader disclosed that the mutually beneficial areas discussed include matters relative to the environment, tourism and Oil exploration among others.

With regards to illegal crossing President Granger told the media that a meeting is slated for next week with the Law Enforcement officials where this and other related matters would be addressed.

Granger assured that the meeting was not a talk shop but about solving problems with economic matters to be forwarded to the joint Cooperation Council to quickly resolve same.

The Guyanese President said the livelihood of persons who cross the Corentyne River and unimpeded access to Surinamese airports by Guyanese pilots were also discussion points.

An envoy with ambassadorial status would be appointed with easy access to the highest officials of state in the two countries to further strengthen the easy resolution of problems.