Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Suriname,
Her Excellency Maria E. Levens, delivered by the Permanent Representative of Suriname to the OAS, H.E. Ambassador Henry L. Illes

My wife and I are pleased to welcome you at the House of the OAS on this wonderful afternoon. Thank you so very much for joining us in celebrating the swearing in of Ambassador Albert Ramchand Ramdin as the new Assistant Secretary General of our Organization. It is indeed a momentous occasion for the Republic of Suriname in hosting a reception of this nature here at the seat of the OAS.

Allow me to briefly read a statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Suriname, Her Excellency Maria E. Levens, who could not be here today, as our Parliament has just concluded the first round of voting in electing a new President and Vice President for the Republic.

Today marks an historic moment in Suriname’s history and its relationship with the OAS. On behalf of the Government of Suriname, I wish to extend my gratitude to the Caribbean Community for its early support of our Candidate and to all the countries of the Hemisphere that have entrusted this important post of Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States to one of our nationals.

Within CARICOM, we believe that building hemispheric unity as well as a peaceful and negotiated settlement of conflicts are some of the major and immediate tasks of the new leadership in the OAS.

We are also of the opinion that high priority should be given to building sustainable democracies and economies, by putting in place policies and programmes that create employment and improve social and economic conditions.

We are convinced that the new Assistant Secretary General is equipped with the required skills, knowledge and experience to meaningfully contribute to the work of the OAS

We are also convinced that Ambassador Albert Ramdin will do a good job and contribute to the further strengthening of the OAS and the Inter-American System.

President Runaldo Ronald Venetiaan sends his best wishes for a successful term in office and reiterates his support.

I wish to personally congratulate the new Assistant Secretary General, his wife Charmaine, his wonderful children and family as they celebrate this accomplishment.

Albert, you have made our nation proud. During your tenure as Assistant Secretary General, I have no doubt that you will make the entire Hemisphere proud.

Maria E. Levens
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Government of Suriname
Paramaribo, Republic of Suriname

Thanks again for joining us today.

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