Cross-border trade & health-adjacent development: Brazil and Suriname will start talks in the second half of the year to expand their trade agreement, aiming to grow business beyond a narrow set of goods and add new sectors; the push is tied to broader cooperation discussed during President Lula’s meeting with Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, with energy, logistics, transport, agriculture, and communications on the agenda. Defense, energy, and connectivity deals: A state visit in Brasília is expected to produce 12 bilateral agreements spanning defense, energy, security, and connectivity, as both sides look to strengthen border security and unlock Suriname’s offshore oil and natural gas potential. Local wellness spotlight via beauty: French Guiana–born Harold James, now L’Oréal Paris’ Global Makeup Artist, is highlighted for a more personal, confidence-first approach to makeup—starting with conversation and tailoring looks to culture and personality. Sports for active-living inspiration: Guyana’s Independence 10K and Independence Track & Field events featured standout performances from French runner Odylson Prika and distance star Attoya Harvey, plus cycling momentum from Brighton John in French Guiana.