September 2023 Vol 104

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message

Welcome to the September Newsletter!

 “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future." — John F. Kennedy. The nostalgia of the past can sometimes be good for the soul but when we are stuck in the past, it can be an obstacle to moving forward. As my father used to say, “the most exciting part of life, is not knowing the future.”

Parallel to the changes in our lives, so must the seasons and the times evolve. It is therefore apt to reflect on life’s twists and turns as we leave the carefree sunny days of summer behind and embrace the cooler days of fall. For those who live in colder climates, the change in the leaves from a robust orange to rust and finally to brown is the first hint of fall as they slowly fall on the cold ground and the barren trees prepare for growth and renewal and spring beckons.

We hope that you all in some way or another celebrated Belize’s Independence Day and perhaps took a moment to reflect how very blessed Belize is and take pride in being a Belizean. Belize is home to a diverse mix of cultures who live in peace and harmony. It remains free and democratic with a stable and thriving economy. Every inch of Belize is beautiful, “……From
proud 
Rio 
Hondo
 to old
 Sarstoon, through
 coral 
isle,
 over
 blue
lagoon….” We do pray as Belize’s anthem continues to, “…. keep
watch
 with
 the
 angels,
the 
stars 
and
 moon. For
 freedom
 comes
to‐morrow's
 noon.”

While Belizeans were in a celebratory September spirit, the work of the nation continued. The Prime Minister attended the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Summit discussing the Blue Bond and debt restructuring. The Summit provided a platform for world leaders to address the urgent need for sustainable development and climate action.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of innovative financing mechanisms, such as the Blue Bond, in supporting Belize's commitment to protecting its marine resources and emphasized the need for international cooperation to address common challenges and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

In last month’s edition of this newsletter, we covered the launching of the 2023 Belize Investment Summit and its theme, “Endless Opportunities”. We share with you a synopsis prepared by the Executive Director of BELTRAIDE, Dr. Leroy Almendarez, of the pertinent areas that were covered and the immense success the Summit enjoyed. It sparked a great deal of interest by potential investors who see Belize as a thriving economy ripe for new and diverse investment.

 Prime Minister Briceño also traveled to Texas to celebrate Belize's 42nd anniversary of independence with the vibrant diaspora community, strengthening the nation's bond with its citizens abroad.

The Frist Lady of Belize, H.E. Mrs. Rossana Briceño has been quietly but actively working to achieve many projects important to the development of the country. She has donated a total of 850 educational books to six primary schools, aiming to improve access to quality education for children in need. Additionally, Mrs. Briceño has collaborated with the Republic of China - Taiwan to provide scholarships to deserving students, empowering them to pursue their academic goals.

Her commitment to her community was further demonstrated when she delivered the opening remarks at the United Nations General Assembly Side Event, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about the link between climate change and health, particularly for women, children, and adolescents.

A delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the United Nations General Assembly's 78th Session led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Foreign Trade, the Honorable Eamon Courtenay, who covered a range of important topics to include human rights, poverty alleviation and food security, Taiwan’s inclusion in the international system, and of high priority, the conclusion of a Sartstoon Protocol with Guatemala, while Belize awaits the final resolution by the International Court of Justice. 

Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared some timely and long-awaited news on the reopening of the Consulate General of Belize in New York which will now be providing passport and other consular services. You can reach this office at nycconsul.usa@mfa.gov.bz or by calling 929-447-2884 to make an appointment.

Under GOB Movers and Shakers, you will be able to witness some of the projects Belize’s ministries have been working on such as The Minister of Natural Resources distributing 90 lots to residents of Ladyville as well as the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing working with sculptor Stephen Okeke to restore the Philip Goldson Bust.

See also how the Minister of Health and Wellness is emphasizing the importance of building resilient health systems at the United Nations General Assembly, and read about the Ministry of Education working on boosting back-to-school morale.

Belize has been working tirelessly on achieving its sustainable development goals. We invite you to check out Nature and Sustainability to learn more about the different strategies being used - such as Waste Reuse Incentives in collaboration with Cuba and Honduras, a $144 million dollar loan to build a 60-megawatt solar plant, and under Prime Minister of Belize, an interesting project being discussed about turning sargassum into electricity. 

This month we included 24 men and women as our Stars of the Month. In an act of gratitude from the nation, they were all honored as Belizean Patriots. This prestigious award recognizes their selfless dedication and unwavering dedication to their country. These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields including education, sports, public service, business, health care, and the environment. Their remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration and an example for future generations to follow, we hope you enjoy their stories! 

#belizeansdogreatthingswhereevertheygo

#itsgoodtobebelizean 

Under the section Recipe of the Month, we have included scrumptious Belizean tamales. While many Latin countries claim fame to tamales, the Belizean tamal is the best! (Fishaman no seh e fish stink). The Belizean tamal’s origins are Mayan, with a saucy mixture of “recado” infused with habanero covered in a delicate blanket of corn masa filled with flavorful pieces of chicken or pork or both. The recipe showcases the traditional preparation method, including the use of banana leaves to wrap the tamales and keep them warm and moist. And to top it off, we’ve included a cool treat, the coconut ideal in our Street Food Series.

As always, don't miss our various sections in the newsletter such as “Tidbits”, “Belizeanism of the Month”, “Landmark Beauty of the Month “and other interesting sections to get the inside scoop on all the wonderful things happening in Belize.

#itsgoodtobebelizean

Thank you for reading this newsletter. Enjoy and share with your family and friends!

And remember, it is good to be Belizean!

#rememberitsgoodtobebelizean #thewaitisover #staysafe #Belizeansdogreatthingswherevertheygo

Warm wishes,

Independence Day Address by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño

In his address to the annual Celebrations Calendar, Hon. John Briceño praised the country's progress toward statehood. He acknowledged the nation's challenges, which included a global war, climate change, inflation, and debt. Despite these obstacles, Belize's efforts since the November 2020 election have demonstrated that the country's national plan, #PlanBelize, is working better than expected. Read More

Prime Minister Briceño Attended the 2023 United Nations SDG Summit in New York

Prime Minister John Briceño led a national delegation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Summit in New York City, focusing on the Blue Bond and debt restructuring. He also highlighted the troubling slow progress of implementation, complicated by ongoing world crises and systemic inadequacies.

Read More

How Does Green Climate Fund Inspire More Climate Action?

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño shared a statement on how the Green Climate Fund drives climate action. Check out the video below to learn more about achieving a sustainable future.

Read More

Prime Minister Visits the Diaspora in Texas

The spirit of nationalism brimmed as Belizeans living abroad celebrated our 42nd year as a sovereign nation in Dallas, Texas. I met Belizeans and friends of Belize... we reminisced, celebrated, and talked about the Diaspora and the development of the country we love. Happy Independence Day to all Belizeans and people of Belizean descent living abroad!

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Independence Day Honorees



During Independence celebrations, 25 Belizean patriots were honored at the Tribute to Belizean Patriots ceremony, expressing gratitude and congratulations for their service to the nation.

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Innovative Ideas for a Sustainable Future

The Prime Minister met with Variodin, a German company that specializes in recycling, energy, and hydrogen. They discussed an innovative project that would convert sargassum into electricity for sale to the grid. 

"Solving the sargassum problem and considering a new addition to our energy supply... my office door is always open to meet with any genuine investor."

Read More

United Action to Safeguard Nature's Biodiversity for our World and People

Belize has much to demonstrate as a lead voice and example among SIDS. Our aims have been centered on development actions that tend more to a balance - protection, mitigation foe any loss or environmental damage with an eye on maintaining our healthy mix of biodiversity. Read More

Opening Remarks at the UN General Assembly



H.E. Rossana Briceno, the current Chair of the Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network, delivered the opening remarks at the United Nations General Assembly Side Event on September 19th, 2023, in New York. The event is designed to foster advocacy on "Building Climate-Resilient Health Systems to Achieve Universal Health Coverage." The aim is to raise awareness about the link between climate change and health, particularly for women, children, and adolescents.

Summit of the First Ladies and Gentlemen

The Special Envoy, H.E. Rossana Briceño participated virtually in the third Summit of the First Ladies and Gentlemen held on September 6, 2023, in Kyiv, Ukraine. Mrs. Briceño provided remarks on the topic of Mental Health, inclusive of its importance, and the Fragility and Resilience of the Future.

Donation of 850 Educational Books

The Office of the Special Envoy donated 850 educational books to six primary schools, covering Math, English, Health, and Science, between September 1st and 12th. The books were distributed evenly between six schools, including Queen Street Baptist Primary School, Chan Pine Ridge Primary School, Chapel's Primary School, Louisiana Government School, Paraiso Government Primary School, and Ranchito Government School.

International Day of Sign Languages

Deaf communities, governments, and civil society organizations are working together to promote and recognize national sign languages as part of their diverse linguistic landscapes. Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children H.E. Mrs. Rosanna Briceño urges Belizeans to spread awareness and support advocacy initiatives on International Day of Sign Languages.

Scholarships Awarded

The Office of the Special Envoy in partnership with Republic of China (Taiwan) continued to give scholarships to 21 students. They are to students attending Government high schools countrywide.

Belize National Library Service

"Today was a momentous day at the Belize National Library Service as I had the pleasure of presenting the winners of the 22nd annual Book Fair competitions with well-deserved prizes. It's incredible to see the passion for reading and knowledge in our community!

Congratulations to all the talented individuals who participated and made this event unforgettable!" Learn More

Alliance of First Ladies of Latin America (ALMA) in New York City.

H.E. Rossana Briceño, participated in a meeting of the Alliance of First Ladies of Latin America (ALMA) in New York City. Mrs. Briceño presented on the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and shared best practices.

During the gathering, Mrs. Briceño interacted with Dr. Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States of America. Read More

The UN General Assembly

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration of Belize, Hon. Eamon Courtenay, shared a statement during the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Watch Here

For the written version Click Here

Consulate of Belize in New York

The Consulate of Belize reopens in New York, next to Belize's Permanent Mission to the UN. Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay presided over the ceremony, which was attended by MFAFT CEO H.E. Amalia Mai, H.E. Lynn Young, and H.E. Carlos Fuller. Read More

Belize and Ireland

Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay and Ambassador of Ireland to Belize, H.E. Maeve Von Heyniyz, discussed broadening cooperation in the various areas, included climate, gender equality, and immigration. She is Ireland's first ambassador to Belize

Read More

Meeting with USAID's Delegation

Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay met with a high-level delegation from USAID to discuss key areas of cooperation in border security & defense, regional migration & Belize's amnesty program, climate change & climate finance, and the political situation in Haiti.

Read More

Inaugural Meeting of the International Cooperation Council.

On September 4th the MFAFT chaired the inaugural meeting of the International Cooperation Council (ICC). The ICC embodies Belize's commitment to fostering effective global collaboration, ensuring that aid from our partners positively contributes to our long-term development. Read More

Letter of Credence from Angola

Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay has received the letter of credence from Angola's new Ambassador to Belize, H.E. Agostinho De Caravalho dos Santos Van Dúmen. Durinh their meeting, they discussed cooperation between CARICOM & Angola, trade, agriculture, COP28 and the political situation in Gabon and the rest of Africa. Read More

Forging Closer Ties

Within the margins of #UNGA78, Belize established diplomatic relations with The Gambia and signed a joint communique to establish diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands. These developments mark important steps in strengthening global partnerships. Learn More

Consulate of Belize in Florida

"House Keeping Business"

Belizean Diaspora in the USA

Belize Business Directory

USA Database



Here at the Consulate, we continue to work diligently in updating our database by calling members of the Belizean Diaspora and asking for their most recent contact information. This is to ensure we are able to share upcoming events, new services, and business opportunities in a timely manner. We appreciate your cooperation and support in sharing your contact information. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Market your Business in our Consulate's Website

The Consulate's Belize Business Directory is new and improved!

The Directory's objective is to promote Belizean businesses in the US and in Belize. If you own a business or know of a Belizean who does and would like to publish it on our website, please send us an email with your contact information so that we can add it to our Belizean Business Directory.

Belize Embassy, Mission and Consulate's

Contact Information

Tourism Tidbits

United Airlines’ Hemispheres Magazine Spotlights Belize as the Ultimate Tropical Destination

Іn аn аttеmрt tо ѕhоwсаѕе thе еnсhаntіng bеаutу оf Веlіzе, Неmіѕрhеrеѕ, thе аwаrd-wіnnіng іnflіght mаgаzіnе fоr Unіtеd Аіrlіnеѕ, dеdісаtеѕ а ѕресіаl dоublе-раgе fеаturе іn іtѕ Ѕерtеmbеr іѕѕuе tо thе trорісаl hаvеn.

Read More

Trade and Investment Tidbits

Top Ten Benefits of Banking in Belize: A Haven for International Investors

Belize has steadily made its mark in the financial world. While many visitors come to this Caribbean paradise for its world-class diving and diverse ecosystems, an increasing number are drawn by its thriving banking sector. Here, we look at the top ten advantages of banking in Belize and learn why "The Jewel" is becoming a more popular destination for international investors.

Read More

Cultural Tidbits

Independence Reception at the OAS Hall of Americas

On Thursday, September 14th, Central American countries, including Belize, held an Independence Reception at the OAS Hall of Americas to commemorate their independence day. It was a wonderful and enjoyable occasion to celebrate with friends and colleagues. 

Read More

Twenty four men and women honored as Belizean Patriots for their contributions and service to Belize on September 13, 2023.

Meet this year's awardees.

Congratulations to all!

 We are proud to call you our Stars of the Month!

#Belizeansdogreatthingswherevertheygo

Baron Bliss Lighthouse

Baron Bliss Lighthouse was established in 1885 on the former site of a Spanish fortress. It is named after one of Belize's greatest benefactors, Baron Bliss, who is known to have never actually set foot on Belizean shores but was impressed with the people's warm hospitality. He was a sailor and fisherman who traveled the world aboard his yacht the "Sea King". 

Aze-haad pikni go da market two time

Literally: Ears-hard children go to market twice

Meaning: Listening to advice can save a lot of trouble

Belize Investment Summit (BIS) 2023 Recap by Dr. Leroy Almendarez

Belize Investment Summit: Endless Opportunities

The Belize Investment Summit took place over two days on August 31- September 1, 2023, at the Grand Caribe Resort, Ambergris Caye, San Pedro, Belize. The event, hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister brought together government officials, policymakers, entrepreneurs, ambassadors, and business leaders from Guatemala, Mexico, Taiwan, Korea, and from the Caribbean Guyana & St. Kitts to connect, engage in thoughtful discussions, and explore the multitude of investment opportunities in Belize.

Fostering International Collaboration

The event featured keynote speaker former President of Colombia, Ivan Duque Marquez highlighting the potential economic benefits for the orange economy in Belize. The former president recognized Belize as "a burgeoning land of opportunity, enriched with cultural diversity and undergoing rapid development". He further emphasized the need for Belize to establish a dedicated cabinet that would strategize on maximizing the value derived from the orange economy.

Ceremonial Signing

The Prime Minister signed a collaborative agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank for the Promotion of Sustainable Growth in the Blue Economy. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) approved a $7 million loan to Belize to help sustainably expand its blue economy. The program’s overall objectives are to increase the earning potential of artisanal fishers and keep fishery exports high while promoting sustainable use of the country's commercial marine resources.

Promoting Investment Opportunities

The two-day event featured discussions on investment opportunities in the blue, green, and orange economies. Day 1 highlights include a ministerial discussion on Attracting High-quality Investments in Belize’s Priority Sectors. Updates within Belize’s priority industries with a focus on Sustainable Development and Education, Science and Technology, and the new investment outlook in post-pandemic Belize and how the Government is working to meet investor needs. Followed throughout the day's event was a powerful Ambassador's fireside chat which included trends and opportunities that make Belize an ideal destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the US, Taiwan, and the UK. The day ended with a discussion on what happens when the natural and creative forces meet and how Belize’s Green Economy is primed for investments that focus on environmental protection and sustainable landscape development.

Day 2 started off with one of the summit speakers, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources, Petroleum, and Mining, Hon. Cordel Hyde, delivering an enthusiastic keynote address, painting a vivid picture of Belize’s natural splendor and its boundless investment prospects. In summary, the Deputy Prime Minister unveiled a developing business unit, created to streamline business operations across departments. This initiative aims to foster a conducive environment for business startups, expansion, and financing. Additional discussions included: Belize's roadmap to a sustainable, secure, and affordable energy future, propelling the BPO sector forward, and Belize as the leader in converting waves into sustainable investments in blue bonds.

Showcasing private sector opportunities

The two events also featured forty booth participants, which included twenty private sector and twenty from the public sector. The Business and Exports Expo presented an opportunity for vendors to showcase their products but also to pitch to visitors and investors about their product or service.

Fostering Entrepreneurship

The business pitch competition which provided grant funding for new and existing entrepreneurs took place on day two of the Belize Investment Summit.

The business pitch competition received thirty-five applications from across the country. Three businesses were shortlisted under the Start-Up Category, and five businesses were shortlisted under the Startup Category and Near Export Ready Category.

The winner of the Start-Up Category was Ms. Kristy Chi, Lab2U with BZD $5,000; The winner of the Maturing Category was Mr. Lindsburgh Smith, owner of Smithy’s Juices with BZD $7,000; The winner of the Near Export or Export Category was Mr. Javier Saqui, owner of Ya'axkin Butterfly Farm with BZD $10,000.

Financing your investments

The Belize Investment Summit provided a platform for domestic and international banks to promote financial innovation in attracting sustainable investments, fostering economic growth, and creating a more equitable and conscious future. Which included representatives from the National Bank of Belize, Belize Bank, Central Bank of Belize, DFC, SSB Investment Committee, Economic Development, and IDB.

Forging connections

Attendees had the opportunity to connect with private sector representatives and government officials during business meetings. The one-on-one sessions proved valuable allowing investors to pitch business opportunities seeking joint venture and/or capital in Belize. The call for private sector investments garnered over $51 Million (USD) seeking investments in Agribusiness & Agro-Processing Fisheries & Aquaculture, Food & Beverage, I.T Enabled Services, Light Manufacturing & Logistics, Orange Economy, Tourism & Leisure, Real Estate Development, Education Services, Sustainable Energy, Other.

The success of the second Belize Investment Summit highlighted that Belize remains open for business hosting over five hundred participants exploring endless opportunities in the Blue, Green, and Orange Economy.



Honorary Consul and Trade Representative of Belize in Florida, Ms. Janine Sylvestre along with the High Commissioner of Belize to the UK, H.E. Therese Rath, the Ambassador of Belize in the United States, H.E. Lynn Raymond Young, the Ambassador of Belize to El Salvador H.E. Cherie Nisbet, and the Ambassador of Belize in Mexico H.E. Oscar Arnold.

Honorary Consul and Trade Representative of Belize in Florida,

Ms. Janine Sylvestre with the Honorable John Briceño at the Belize Investment Summit. 

• Minister of Natural Resources Distributes 90 lots to Ladyville Residents Read More

• The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing collaborates with sculptor Stephen Okeke for repair of Philip Goldson Bust Read More

• Minister of Health and Wellness emphasizes the importance of building resilient health systems at the United Nations General Assembly Read More

• Ministry of Education Partners with Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at to Boost Back-to-School Morale Read More

• Ministry of Economic Development Hands Over Road Safety Toolkits for Schools to Ministry of Education Read More

• Health Minister Kevin Bernard Chairs Regional Council Meeting Read More

• United States Embassy in Belize and International Visitor Leadership Program Alumni Discuss Exchange Program Experiences Read More

• Agriculture Ministers of Belize and El Salvador to Discuss Technical Cooperation Opportunities Read More

• UK’s OCPP and IUCN Join Forces with Belize Government to Boost Marine Conservation Read More

• Taiwan Expresses Gratitude to Belize for Advocating for its Inclusion at United Nations General Assembly Read More

• Belize Becomes the First Country in Central America and the Caribbean to Receive a Certificate of Recognition on Ratifying the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement Read More

• Belize@42 Mural on Dolphin Street Recalls Famous 1981 Independence Poster Read More

• Belize Tourism Board Hosts 17th Annual Belize Open at Roaring River Golf Course Read More

• The Garden City Lights Up with Night Market Read More

• Comedy Belize is back with Three International Comedians Presenting their Latest Show, "Fyah Fi Dat." Read More

• Belize, Cuba, and Honduras Collaborate on Plastic Waste Reuse Initiatives Read More

• How Belize’s Barrier Reef is Being Treated Against the Spread of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease Read More

• Friends for Conservation and Development and Community Leaders Discuss Management of Production Landscape for Environmental Benefits Read More

• Cabinet Approves ‘A People-Centric Conservation Agenda for Belize’s Blue Space Initiative’ Read More

• Belize takes strides toward sustainable energy with $144 million loan for solar plant Read More

• Over 11,000 attendees: Belize Chamber of Commerce Declares Expo Belize Marketplace 2023 a grand success Read More

• Unemployment Hits Historic Low of 2.8% in Belize, PM Briceño Announces in Independence Day Address Read More

• A Bright Future for Belize through Agriculture and Innovation: A Conversation with Silk Grass Farms Co-Founder and Executive Director Henry Canton Read More

• New Tourism Project Attracts $200 Million USD in Foreign Investment for Belize Read More

• Belize Investment Summit 2023 Showcasing Substantial Investment Opportunities and Potential for People Read More

• Belize Tourism Board Honors its Newest Front Line Hero Read More

• Young Artist, Brhianna Promotes Painting to Assist Cancer Patient in Santa Elena, Cayo Read More

• Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Program (ITEC) - Funded Short Courses and Training Learn More

• San Pedro Woman Wins $158,000 Megabingo Jackpot – Second in Less than Two Weeks Read More

• Unearth the Magic of Belize: Your Perfect Year-End Getaway Read More

• Belize Recognized as a Top Global Fishing Destination by Sports Fishing Magazine Read More

• Belize Shines Again in The Manual Magazine with Spotlight on Eco-Tourism Read More

• Check out Travel + Leisure's Ultimate Belize Guide, Including When to Go, Where to Stay, and What to Do Read More

Tamales

This Recipe Makes 12 Tamales

First, you’ll need to get two banana leaves (Most international ethnic stores sell them- and once you wrap the tamale once, foil can seal the deal.)

Roast the leaves directly over a fire or burner on both sides to soften. Cut each leaf into six pieces, three pieces on each side of the vein. Sponge each piece with a damp cloth and set aside. Save the veins for later.

Making the Tamal Base:

• 1 ½ lbs masa
• ¾ cups oil
• Some water
• Salt to taste

Making the Col (Red filling):

• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp annatto (red recado)
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1 T oil
• ½ lb masa
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste

Belizean Coconut Ideal

Ingredients:

• Milk from one coconut
• 2 cans of evaporated milk
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
• Cinnamon to taste
• Sandwich Bags

August 2023, VOL. 103 Read More

July 2023, VOL. 102 Read More

June 2023, VOL. 101 Read More

May 2023, VOL. 100 Read More

April 2023, VOL. 99 Read More

March 2023, VOL. 98 Read More

February 2023, VOL. 97 Read More

January 2023, VOL. 96. Read More

December 2022, VOL. 95 Read More

November 2022, VOL. 94 Read More

October 2022, VOL. 93 Read More

September 2022, VOL. 92. Read More

Prime Minister Briceño's Latest Statement on the ICJ

On September 26, as Prime Minister Briceno addressed the Protocolary Session of the (OAS), he reiterated the important role the organization has played in not only for the territorial dispute between Guatemala and Belize but in relations among all Member States.

I emphasized our hope for a peaceful solution to the Guatemala Belize matter currently at the ICJ, where Belize is allowed to maintain the integrity of all its borders.