According to him, the way different religious communities coexist here is exceptional in the world. The ambassador shared these remarks in an interview with Times of Suriname.

The diplomat arrived earlier this week in Paramaribo and visited several locations in the city. One of the places that made a deep impression on him is the historic synagogue located next to the mosque on Keizerstraat. According to Cohen, it is extremely rare worldwide for a synagogue and a mosque to stand so close to each other. “You can literally walk from the synagogue to the mosque”, he said. “That is something you hardly see anywhere else in the world”.

During his visit, the ambassador received explanations about how both religious communities cooperate in practice. According to Cohen, this is a powerful symbol of mutual respect. He emphasized that such cooperation is rare in many parts of the world, especially at a time when tensions surrounding religion and anti-Semitism are increasing in several countries. “For people who live here, this may seem normal, but for someone like me who has traveled quite extensively around the world, it is truly remarkable and unique”, he said.

Cohen also expressed admiration for the multicultural composition of the Surinamese population. According to him, it is striking how different communities - including Hindustanis, Muslims, Christians and Jews - live relatively peacefully alongside one another. He described Suriname as an example of how diversity can function in a society without major religious conflicts. The ambassador indicated that during his short stay he has already held discussions with members of the Jewish community in Paramaribo. The historical role of Jews in Suriname was also discussed during these conversations.

An important part of that history is the former Jewish settlement of Joden Savanne. This historic site along the Suriname River was centuries ago an important center of Jewish communities. According to Cohen, the location is of great international significance and is now recognized as cultural heritage. He indicated that he would like to visit the site himself during a future trip. “It is an important chapter in the history of both Suriname and the Jewish diaspora”, he said.

Cohen’s visit takes place in a special year for both countries. In 2026, Suriname and Israel mark fifty years of diplomatic relations. Since 1976 the two countries have maintained diplomatic ties, although without a permanent Israeli embassy in Paramaribo. Cohen represents Israel from Panama and is responsible for several countries in the region. During his visit, the ambassador presented his credentials to the Surinamese authorities and held discussions with several government officials. Although those meetings were formal and brief, he said his first impression of Suriname was very positive.

He described the country as “friendly and open” and said he hopes to travel to Suriname more often in the future. According to Cohen, Suriname’s cultural diversity can serve as an example for other countries. “The harmony I see here between different religions and cultures is impressive”, he said. “It shows that living together with respect and without war is possible”.