King Willem-Alexander to make first Dutch state visit to Suriname since 1978

King Willem-Alexander will visit Suriname this year at the invitation of the country’s government, shortly after the 50th independence anniversary on November 25. The visit will mark the first time a Dutch monarch has visited the former colony since 1978.

The invitation followed diplomatic consultations earlier this month, Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons said after returning from the United Nations summit in New York.

Prime Minister Dick Schoof is scheduled to attend the independence celebrations, known as Srefidensi, on November 25, according to arrangements made during his meeting with President Geerlings-Simons in New York. The king is expected to follow in early December.

Under the administration of former President Desi Bouterse, who was convicted of corruption and other charges, no royal visits took place.

Plans are also reportedly underway to establish a new ferry route to export Surinamese agricultural products to Caribbean islands, with Barbados also showing interest, according to ANP news agency reports.