PARAMARIBO – China is looking for possibilities to grant a request of Suriname and Guyana for the construction of a bridge across the Corantijn River. “We believe that this connection could contribute to the improvement of the infrastructure within South America,” said Qu Yuhui, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs, of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, during a meeting with Surinamese journalists in Beijing several days ago. He made this statement during a presentation regarding developments that his country is in favour of. On April 13th President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, on behalf of himself and his Guyanese counterpart, Irfaan Ali, presented a request aimed at financing the construction of a bridge across the Corantijn River to Chinese president Xi Jinping. Many people were under the impression that this request was swept under the carpet. The statement of Deputy Director Qu Yuhui has made it clear that his country is processing the joint request from Suriname and neighbouring Guyana.

Qu emphasized that talks have already been held. China supports possibilities aimed at improving the infrastructure worldwide as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. “The financial authorities are busy and we hope to present proposals soon, despite the fact that this request was made just two months ago.” (AP)…[+]