Mexico and Suriname are two American nations with distinct colonial histories. Mexico, like many other nations in the region, was colonized by Spain and gained independence in 1821. Suriname is the only independent nation in the Americas to be colonized by and gain independence from the Netherlands.[2] Immediately after gaining independence, both Mexico and Suriname established diplomatic relations on 25 November 1975.[1] In 1982, Suriname opened an embassy in Mexico City, however, in 1986, due to budget restraints, Suriname closed its diplomatic mission and has since accredited its ambassador in Washington, D.C. to Mexico.[1] Mexico has never opened an embassy in Paramaribo, however, it has always maintained an honorary consulate in the capital city.[3]
In September 2021, Surinamese President Chan Santokhi paid a visit to Mexico to attend the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in Mexico City.[7] In April 2023, both nations held their first bilateral meeting for consultations on issues of shared interest.[8]
Both nations have signed a few bilateral agreements such as an Agreement on Scientific and Technical Cooperation (2012); Agreement of Cooperation in Agriculture and to train Surinamese diplomats in the Spanish language (2012) and a Memorandum of Understanding for the Establishment of a Consultation Mechanism on Matters of Common Interest (2021).[9][1] Each year, Mexico provides government scholarships to Surinamese students to learn Spanish and/or to study for a master's degrees in Mexico.[1]
Trade relations
In 2023, two-way trade between Mexico and Suriname amounted to US$25.8 million.[10] Mexico's main exports to Suriname include: tubes and pipes, iron and steel products, vehicles and tractors, malt extracts and oil. Suriname's main exports to Mexico include: hand adjustment keys, machinery and mechanical appliances, containers and clothing.[10] Mexican multinational company Cemex operates in Suriname.[11]
