PARAMARIBO, Suriname, Nov 25 2016 – Suriname is celebrating its 41st anniversary of political independence from the Netherlands on Thursday with the traditional military parade and a public holiday.
The main events marking Independence Day are held at the Paramaribo Presidential Palace, a grand colonial era building on Independence Square with President Desi Bouterse taking the guard of honour.
In a brief statement marking the occasion, the Secretary general of the Guyana-based Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Irwin La Rocque lauded the Dutch-speaking country’s tremendous strides since attaining nationhood.
In his congratulatory message La Rocque noted the global respect Suriname has earned through its sports, culture and academic excellence.
He also applauded Suriname’s role in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet where the country has lead responsibility for community development, including youth, sports and culture.
Suriname gained independence from the Kingdom of the Netherlands on 25 November 1975.
