Belize Expands Diplomatic Ties With Four Newly Accredited Countries

Belize is seeking to strengthen its diplomatic and development partnerships following separate meetings with newly accredited representatives from Zambia, Belgium, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Ambassador Oscar Arnold, received copies of the diplomats’ Letters of Credence during the meetings.  In his engagement with Zambia’s High Commissioner to Belize, Chibamba Kanyama, discussions focused on the longstanding relationship between the two Commonwealth countries. The officials also explored opportunities for greater bilateral cooperation and discussed preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.  Belgian Ambassador Patrick Hermann also met with Ambassador Arnold. Their discussions covered existing cooperation through global initiatives, including support for the transition to cleaner energy and technical training programmes. Arnold also provided an update on the Belize–Guatemala territorial, insular and maritime dispute presently before the International Court of Justice.  That case was also discussed during Arnold’s meeting with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Belize, Toferry Primanda Soetikno. The two officials explored opportunities for expanded cooperation, stronger South-South collaboration and increased engagement through multilateral organizations.  Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Belize, Fahad bin Ali Almunawer, discussed possible development partnerships and closer collaboration on matters of shared international interest.  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the four meetings form part of Belize’s continuing effort to maintain cordial diplomatic relations, attract development cooperation and advance the country’s interests through bilateral and multilateral engagement. Governor-General Dame Froyla Tzalam has since received Letters of Credence from these four newly appointed ambassadors to Belize.