Workshop on the Gas Exploitation Study Group for members of the RvM

The following is a machine translation of a Suriname government release

At the request of President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the Presidential Study Group on Gas Exploitation Development has organized a workshop for members of the Council of Ministers (CoM) and their staff to further explain the recent gas report and discuss its implications for Suriname. The workshop, held on Friday, June 21, 2024, at the Banquet Hall of Hotel Torarica, aimed to inform government officials about the recommendations regarding the country's gas resources.

Chairman Willem Bloem of the Presidential Study Group gave a detailed presentation on the main points of the report, including: the size of the gas deposits, potential exploitation opportunities, the expected impact on the economy and the role in the sustainable development of Suriname. In addition, the ministers and staff members present were guided in understanding the implications of the gas reserves for the country and were given tools on how to deal with them effectively. The workshop included interactive sessions, where participants had the opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas and discuss possible strategies for effective use of our gas resources. The aim is to create a shared understanding and reach consensus on policies regarding gas exploitation, with a focus on transparency, sustainability and maximum benefits for the entire Surinamese population.

The moderator of the workshop, Jan-Paul van Driel gave an introduction to the oil and gas industry in general and world trends. Willem Bloem, independent advisor in the gas industry, then told the story of the gas study group and the recommendations that were made. After Bloem, Arleen Emanuels, acting director in the Office of the President, spoke about the roadmap, the entire administrative structure of Suriname and what the plans are for this. Finally, Vandana Gangaram-Panday from Staatsolie provided an update on the state of oil exploration and developments offshore.

Bloem emphasized the importance of this workshop and called it a crucial step in the decision-making process and the further development of the strategic framework for the gas sector in Suriname. The outcomes of the workshop will serve as a guideline for further action plans and policy measures to utilize gas resources in a responsible and effective manner.

President Santokhi addressed the crucial development of the country's oil and gas industry and commended the efforts of the Presidential Study Group to develop a strategic framework for the responsible exploitation of natural resources. He underlined Suriname's strategic position when it comes to the exploitation of oil and gas. He stated that maximizing the benefits of this strategic position is of great importance for the people and economy of Suriname. The head of state also spoke about the need for a gradual transition to renewable energy sources as part of Suriname's long-term strategy to promote sustainable development and combat climate change.