Surinamese president Chan Santokhi is visiting Amsterdam this weekend. This afternoon he first visited the official residence of Mayor Halsema, after which the delegation went to Southeast to take a look at Surinamese artists and entrepreneurs.
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In the official residence, the president and the mayor signed an agreement between Amsterdam and Suriname. “We would like to invest in Suriname,” said Halsema. “We especially want to build an equal relationship in the coming years of exchange and mutual reinforcement.” The agreement is important for Santokhi, he wants to strengthen the governance in Suriname as soon as possible. “Amsterdam is willing to help us by also providing physical assistance.”
He thinks Amsterdam is a great city. “It is a metropolis, a city that I say. It is the place to be.” Tonight he hopes to be able to drink a brown beer, which he loves. He hasn’t had time for it yet, according to him that shows how full the program is. “But before I leave tomorrow, I’ll try to for a nice brown beer.”
Artists and entrepreneurs
After the moment in the official residence, the delegation leaves for Zuidoost. Santokhi talks there with various entrepreneurs and artists, including Brian Elstak. “The president was pleased to hear that I know how to approach young art lovers,” says the artist. “That they apply my work and really come somewhere for my work.”
The president also speaks with Timothy Sabajo, the owner of fashion brand Patta. He is looking forward to what the new president of Suriname will do. “We hope for the best.”
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