Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons announced that Guyana was formally notified earlier this year about Suriname’s decision to finance the construction of the Corentyne River Bridge independently. This statement was made during the 51st Regular CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Saint Lucia, where she addressed the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
President Geerlings-Simons emphasized that the shift from a joint-venture framework was communicated directly to Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali during bilateral meetings in February. She stated, “We didn’t decide it just now; we formally informed the President of Guyana in Saint Kitts and Nevis during our bilateral meetings back in February.” When questioned about how her government plans to secure funding for the project, she expressed confidence, saying, “We will manage the funding… do not worry.”
The situation has escalated, revealing a breakdown in communication regarding what was initially seen as a collaborative effort for regional integration. Surinamese Public Works and Spatial Planning Minister Stephen Tsang had previously announced the policy change during a parliamentary budget debate, asserting, “It must and will be a Surinamese bridge.”
The projected cost for the bridge, which is expected to span 3.1 kilometers, is estimated at around US$300 million. The bridge aims to replace the aging ferry service between South Drain in Suriname and Moleson Creek in Guyana, facilitating overland transit to French Guiana and Brazil.
By moving away from the joint framework established under a 2020 Memorandum of Understanding, the project’s timeline may be significantly affected, potentially requiring a new international tendering process. President Ali has publicly expressed skepticism about the independent funding model, describing it as “complete news to me,” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a joint development approach.
In response to the situation, Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, rejected Suriname’s claims, stating that no indication of a departure from the collaborative approach was communicated during high-level meetings, including a bilateral meeting on May 15. As tensions rise, the Surinamese Ministry of Finance is exploring financing options and toll-collection structures to ensure the project’s economic feasibility. Despite the conflicting narratives, Minister Todd reiterated that Guyana is prepared to engage in discussions to advance the project.
Source: hgptv.com
