The two diplomats were sworn in on Friday at the Presidential Palace as Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassadors of Suriname to the Republic of Indonesia and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, respectively.

According to Simons, the ambassadors have an important responsibility to represent Suriname abroad. Their duties include strengthening political and diplomatic relations, promoting trade and investment, and showcasing Suriname’s identity, opportunities and interests internationally. “With your swearing-in, Ambassadors Fernald and Atmodimedjo, you are entrusted with an honorable and responsible assignment. You represent the Republic of Suriname at your respective posts and safeguard our national interests there. Let Suriname’s interests be your compass,” the president told them.

Simons stressed that the country’s interests must always come first in the ambassadors’ actions and in the way they represent Suriname. She also expects them to pay particular attention to attracting investment and promoting economic cooperation. According to the president, Suriname must be positioned as a potential, strategic and reliable partner. She noted that Suriname is on the eve of major economic developments, particularly due to the prospects in the oil and gas sector. These developments could generate spin-offs in various other sectors. For this reason, economic diplomacy must occupy an important place within Suriname’s foreign policy. “Suriname is on the eve of important economic developments, partly because of the prospects in the oil and gas sector, with expected spin-offs in various sectors. We must capitalize on these developments while also developing other sectors,” Simons said.

To Ambassador Fernald, the head of state specifically emphasized the need to work toward a stable relationship with Guyana. That relationship, she said, should be based on mutual respect and shared interests. Given the geographical proximity and existing ties between the two countries, Simons said it is important to further strengthen cooperation. Atmodimedjo was tasked with facilitating Suriname’s access to Asia while further strengthening ties between Indonesia and the Caribbean. This includes exploring opportunities to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation between the two regions.

The president also pointed out that international relations are constantly changing. This requires an assertive, reliable and results-oriented diplomatic approach. “Stay well informed about developments in Suriname and at your post, and identify in a timely manner opportunities that are important to our country,” Simons said. She also underscored the importance of Suriname’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as mutual respect in international relations. Fernald said he felt honored to represent Suriname at the highest diplomatic level. At the same time, he said he was aware of the significant responsibility and facilitating role that the position entails. He assured the president that he would not betray the confidence placed in him.