India and Suriname Relation

Source: PIB
GS II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About MoU
3. About Suriname

Why in News?

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 4th June, 2023 between the Indian  Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of the Republic of India and Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Suriname for Recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) in Suriname.

News in Brief

• Convergence in the regulatory practices could help in increasing the export of medicines from India and consequentially help in better employment opportunities for educated professionals in the Pharmaceutical sector.
• The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) is officially recognized by five (5) countries
  • Afghanistan
  • Ghana
  • Nepal
  • Mauritius
  • The Republic of Suriname.
• The Ministry seeks to expand the nations which recognize the IP.

About MoU

• Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) as a book of standards for medicines in Suriname so as to ensure quality of medicines being manufactured and/or imported in Suriname.
• Certificate of Analysis issued by Indian manufacturers per IP.
• IPRS and Impurity standards from IPC at a reasonably low cost to be used during the quality control analysis.
• Promote an understanding of pharmacopoeia in the regulatory framework.

Indian Pharmacopoeia benefits to the Indian pharmaceutical sector

• Boost the export of Indian pharmaceutical products to these countries.
• Importing nations would gain access to quality Indian medical products at affordable prices.
• Manufacturers in importing countries would have better scope for development of generic medicines.
• Various reference standards and impurity standards would become available to these manufacturers at a reasonable cost.

About Suriname

• Geography
  • Suriname is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, French Guiana to the east, Brazil to the south, and Guyana to the west.
  • The country has a diverse landscape that includes tropical rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas.
• Capital and Largest City
  • The capital city of Suriname is Paramaribo, which is also the largest city and the economic and cultural center of the country.
• Ethnic Diversity
  • Suriname is known for its ethnic diversity, with a population that includes various ethnic groups, such as Hindustani (people of Indian descent), Creoles (people of African descent), Javanese (people of Javanese descent), Maroons (descendants of escaped African slaves), and Indigenous peoples.
• Languages
  • The official language of Suriname is Dutch, reflecting its colonial history.
  • However, many Surinamese people also speak Sranan Tongo, a Creole language, as well as other languages associated with their ethnic backgrounds.
• History
  • Suriname was a Dutch colony from the 17th century until it gained independence on November 25, 1975.
  • The country’s history is marked by colonization, the African slave trade, and the indentured labor system, which brought Indian and Javanese workers to the country.
• Economy
  • Suriname’s economy is based on various sectors, including mining (particularly gold, bauxite, and oil), agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
  • The country is rich in natural resources, but economic challenges and environmental concerns exist.
• Cultural Heritage
  • Suriname’s diverse ethnic groups have contributed to a rich cultural heritage.
  • This is reflected in the country’s music, dance, cuisine, festivals, and religious practices.
• Religions
  • The population of Suriname practices a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Indigenous spiritual beliefs.
  • Religious tolerance is an important aspect of Surinamese society.
• Biodiversity
  • Suriname is home to extensive rainforests and unique ecosystems that support a wide range of plant and animal species.
  • The country’s natural beauty and biodiversity contribute to its potential for ecotourism.
• Government
  • Suriname is a presidential republic with a multi-party political system.
  • The President of Suriname is both the head of state and head of government.
• Cultural Connections
  • Due to its diverse population, Suriname has strong cultural connections with various countries, including the Netherlands, India, Indonesia, and other Caribbean nations.

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