(de Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s exports to Cuba might get another dimension in the times ahead. Preparations are underway to strengthen trade ties with the island nation and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Lackin hopes the first transactions will take place in the first half of this year. Those will involve barter deals with local businesses delivering goods and products to Cuba in return for Cuban products as payment. This deal was brokered by of President Desi Bouterse on his visit to Cuba in May last year. Lackin explains that during the President’s visit, Cuban representatives requested the delivery of crossties for their sugar industry’s railroads. They are also interested in rice. In exchange, Cuba can supply cement and fertilizer, Lackin says, adding, “We know Cuba doesn’t have much capital or private investments, and we’re looking for some type of barter deals with Cuba.” The transactions will be made by private businesses, however. Furthermore, the possibility of facilitating sea transport between Suriname and Cuba and better connections with the region is being considered.