Belize Concludes Five Year Ocean Partnership with United Kingdom

Belize has marked the closing phase of a five-year international ocean programme aimed at protecting its seas and strengthening the country’s “blue economy”, the industries and livelihoods that depend on the ocean.  Government officials, scientists, youth representatives and international partners gathered in Belmopan last week for the Ocean Country Partnership Programme forum, a joint initiative between Belize and the United Kingdom. Belize is the only country in the region participating in the partnership.  In simple terms, the programme helped Belize learn how to better manage its marine resources, including protecting coral reefs and fisheries, reducing ocean pollution and preparing coastal communities for climate change. The forum reviewed what has been achieved and how Belize can continue the work on its own going forward.  Minister of Blue Economy Andre Perez says the cooperation has shown that protecting the environment and supporting the economy can go hand in hand, particularly when it comes to food security, jobs and sustainable tourism.  UK and Belizean scientists worked together during the programme to gather data and train local agencies so decisions about the sea can be based on research rather than guesswork. Officials say the goal now is to ensure local institutions keep using those tools after the programme ends.  The Ocean Country Partnership Programme was funded by the United Kingdom and focused on three main areas: protecting marine life, reducing pollution and supporting safe seafood production.  Organizers say the closing forum was not the end of the effort, but the beginning of Belize managing its marine resources more independently while continuing regional and international cooperation.