Suriname

The Betheljada Foundation, specialized in caring for people with disabilities, received a presidential visit for the first time in 45 years; President Santokhi delivered donations and pledged long-term community support to strengthen social institutions

A National Maritime Operations Center is being established in Suriname to strengthen regional maritime security, involving agencies like the Coast Guard, Customs, and the National Army

Climate change is less alarming in the coastal plain than in the inland area, where villages near rivers are at risks, government stated as it is developing adaptation policies and zoning plans to potentially relocate vulnerable villages

Suriname has implemented new anti-corruption measures, focusing on prevention, criminalization, international cooperation, and asset recovery, with attention to fair competition, law enforcement, and transparent bidding processes

Suriname, with support from the Netherlands' Institute for Sound and Vision, is working to digitize its deteriorating audiovisual archives, safeguarding invaluable cultural heritage at risk due to tropical climate condition

Suriname welcomed new ambulances for key healthcare institutions, funded by the IDB, as part of its modernization efforts, with more expected from China to meet growing emergency care demands

Suriname's Ministry of Health is set for major transformations in 2025, including a new building, ten more ambulances to enhance emergency response, and a focus on digitizing healthcare services for improved efficiency and accessibility

The Fire Department Suriname did not come across any illegal fireworks during routine inspections that were carried out in Paramaribo; only one of the retailers whose stores were inspected was caught violating rules for selling mini crackers to minors

Desi Bouterse, Suriname's former dictator and twice-elected leader, known for his 1980 coup, polarizing legacy, convictions for murder and drug trafficking, died at 79, leaving a lasting but contentious impact on the nation’s history

The Emile de la Fuente Stadium hosted a successful sports day for hundreds of children with disabilities in Suriname; the event, which included games like football and netball, promoted social skills, teamwork, and inclusion for disabilities

Suriname and China signed a Supplemental Finance Agreement to complete the first phase of restructuring Suriname's bilateral debt, paving the way for renewed financing after resolving debts with other creditors