Suriname’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed that President Irfaan Ali of Guyana was informed as early as May 15, 2026, by Suriname’s President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons regarding the financing of the Corentyne River bridge. The ministry stated that during discussions, Suriname expressed its intention to finance the construction of the bridge over the Corantijn River.
This statement contrasts with President Ali’s earlier remarks, in which he indicated that it was news to him that a Suriname government minister had announced plans for the bridge and a toll system. Ali reiterated that Guyana is only interested in a joint venture for the bridge and would maintain this position until presented with a different proposal.
The Surinamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation clarified that the financing of the bridge has been a topic of ongoing bilateral consultations between Suriname and Guyana. This subject was discussed during various meetings, including a meeting between the two presidents in Nickerie on September 13, 2025, and during a bilateral meeting at the 50th CARICOM summit in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The ministry emphasized that due to the project’s scale and strategic importance, careful assessment of financing options is necessary to establish a sustainable financial structure. It was confirmed that the intention of the Surinamese government to finance the bridge was reiterated during recent bilateral consultations.
Additionally, both countries agreed that technical working groups would collaboratively develop the financial, technical, and operational aspects of the bridge project, including its future operation. The Suriname government highlighted the significance of a permanent link between the two nations, which could enhance trade, investment, logistics, mobility, tourism, and overall socio-economic development.
The Geerlings-Simons administration remains committed to fostering an open and constructive dialogue regarding this project and other mutual interests. Prior to the May 2025 elections, Guyana and Suriname had received bids from companies in the Netherlands and China for the estimated US$300 million bridge, which is intended to replace the existing ferry service between Moleson Creek in Guyana and South Drain in Suriname.
Source: demerarawaves.com
