Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, describing it as an “irreparable loss” for both Suriname and the global Indian diaspora. In a message shared on X, he said he was deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of his friend and the former leader.

Recalling their personal interactions, the Prime Minister praised Santokhi’s dedication to his country and his efforts to strengthen ties between India and Suriname. He noted that Santokhi had a deep appreciation for Indian culture and had won admiration for taking his oath in Sanskrit. Modi also extended his heartfelt condolences to Santokhi’s family and the people of Suriname during this difficult time.

In November 2024, Modi had met Santokhi on the sidelines of the second India CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, where they reviewed bilateral relations and explored ways to expand cooperation across sectors. In July 2025, 71 year old physician and senior lawmaker Jennifer Geerlings Simons became Suriname’s first woman president after securing parliamentary approval.

India and Suriname share warm and friendly relations, strengthened by long standing cultural and people to people connections rooted in the Indian diaspora that dates back over a century. The two countries maintain institutional mechanisms such as Joint Commission Meetings and a Joint Working Group on Agriculture to deepen cooperation. India has also supported Suriname through development partnerships, including lines of credit and grants.

Although trade ties remain modest, India exports items such as machinery, iron and steel, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, textiles, vehicles, tea, spices and other goods to Suriname, while importing products like wood, aluminium, textiles, garments, herbal items, spices and electrical machinery.