Guyana: President Ali Addresses Suriname’s Bridge Financing Comments

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana has indicated that the country has not received any official communication from Suriname regarding changes to the proposed Corentyne River bridge project. This statement follows comments made by Suriname’s Public Works and Spatial Planning Minister Stephen Tsang, who mentioned in the National Assembly that Suriname plans to finance the bridge entirely.

During a side interview with reporters, President Ali noted that the only information he has received on the matter has been through media reports. He stated, “I have not received anything officially, other than what is in the media.” This comes after Minister Tsang’s remarks raised questions about the bridge project, which was previously considered a joint initiative between the two countries.

President Ali reaffirmed that Guyana’s stance on the bridge remains unchanged, emphasizing that the Corentyne bridge is a joint project between the Government of Guyana and the Government of Suriname. He expressed Guyana’s interest in being part of a project that connects both nations, stating, “Guyana is interested in being part of a project that covers two sovereign spaces, and a joint one. That has always been our position.”

He also clarified that no new official request or proposal has been presented to him regarding the bridge. Ali mentioned, “There is no other position that is before me. There is no other official request.” He added that if Suriname were to make a formal request to alter the arrangement, Guyana would respond clearly, stating, “If any other request is made, then at that time we will have a position to pronounce on it. And you can rest assured that I’ll pronounce decisively on it.”

The Corentyne River bridge is seen as a significant cross-border project that could enhance trade, tourism, transport, and interpersonal connections between Guyana and Suriname. Last year, both countries agreed to expedite the project and revive discussions on border issues. Initial estimates for the bridge’s cost were around US$300 million.

Additionally, President Ali addressed concerns from users of the Corentyne River, stating that he has not received any recent complaints from operators or users regarding challenges on the river. He confirmed this information with the relevant ministry, indicating that there have been no reported issues in recent times.

Source: hgptv.com