Minister André Misiekaba had also visited Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) and that they had discussed buying medicines and medical supplies together. The hospital officials have a positive response to this proposal.

President Simons explained that this type of collaboration could lower the costs and improve the availability of essential medical products in Suriname. A joint workgroup will be put together to work out the details of this collaboration. The HIC is known for the highly specialized medical care that it provides to Surinamese patients. The Surinamese head of state pointed out that the HIC is prepared to share its knowledge and experiences with Suriname. In February a delegation from Colombia will come to Suriname for a work visit. During this visit talks will take place with organizations and institutions that provide first-line and second-line healthcare services. It will also be possible in March for Surinamese nurses to gain more experience in Bucaramanga.