Guyana Rejects Suriname’s Claim, Insists Corantijn Bridge Was Always a Joint Project

Guyana is standing firm on its position regarding the Corantijn Bridge after Suriname unexpectedly announced it wants to fully finance and own the project. For years, both countries worked together on the planning and development of the bridge, presenting it as a joint mega‑project intended to strengthen regional connectivity.

Earlier this week, Surinamese minister Stephen Tsang told the National Assembly that Suriname now intends to build the bridge entirely with its own funds. This statement surprised Guyana, whose president Irfaan Ali says he has received no official communication from Paramaribo about any change in the long‑standing bilateral agreement.

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President Ali emphasized that Guyana still considers the bridge a shared initiative. He stated that from the very beginning, the project was discussed and developed as a partnership between two sovereign nations. According to Ali, Suriname was still finalizing its part of the legal framework, while Guyana had already completed its administrative preparations. Because of this, he does not view Tsang’s remarks as an official policy shift.

Ali added that Guyana will only respond formally if Suriname submits an official request to alter the existing agreements. Until then, Guyana continues to operate under the original joint approach.

Minister Tsang acknowledged that full Surinamese financing could affect the project’s timeline. Depending on the funding model—possibly including toll collection—a completely new international tender might be required, which could cause further delays.

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The planned 3.1‑kilometer bridge is meant to replace the aging ferry service between South Drain (Suriname) and Moleson Creek (Guyana). It is seen as a strategic link for trade, tourism, and regional integration, including connections toward French Guiana and Brazil.

Interestingly, Ali noted that there are currently no complaints about the existing river crossing. Operators and users have not reported issues, according to checks made with Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Beyond infrastructure, the matter touches on broader geopolitical and economic interests. Both countries are rising players in the oil sector, making the question of ownership and control over the bridge particularly sensitive.

For now, Guyana’s message remains unchanged: the Corantijn Bridge was conceived as a joint project from day one, and Guyana sees no reason to deviate from that position without formal notice from Suriname.