CUBA, Jan 16, 2010. - “Despite our satisfaction for the opening of our embassy in Havana, we can not forget our sorrow for what is happening in Haiti and we send our condolences to the Government and people of that sister nation,” said Louise Irene Kraag-Keteldijk, Foreign Minister of Suriname, during the inauguration of her country’s embassy in the Cuban capital on Friday afternoon. After saying that the opening of the diplomatic venue in Havana represents a landmark in the bilateral relationship between Cuba and Suriname, Kraag-Keteldijk announced that her government will soon appoint a permanent ambassador to Cuba. She praised the current excellent ties between the two nations and thanked Cuba for its medical assistance, particularly for the Miracle free eye care program that has allowed nearly 25,000 Surinamese people to recover or improve their sight. According to the distinguished visitor, Cuba and Suriname share common views on topics such as sustainable development, climate change and the right of all nations to carry out their own development. The ceremony included a toast to the leader of the Cuban Revolution Fidel Castro and also to Cuban President Raul Castro and the Surinamese leader, Ronald Venetiaan. Present in the ceremony was Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla and representatives from the diplomatic corps accredited to Havana. ( Cubaminrex - acn) |