CARICOM Condemns Guatemalan Military Incursions Into Belize Territory

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued a strong statement condemning recent incursions by the Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) into Belizean territory, calling on Guatemala to immediately halt its “aggressive actions” in the Sarstoon River.  According to a statement from the CARICOM Secretariat, the Government of Belize reported that between September 10 and 13, GAF elements illegally entered Belizean territory. During these incursions, they allegedly hoisted a Guatemalan flag on Belizean soil, attempted to ram a Belizean military vessel, and harassed and obstructed Belizeans from navigating the Sarstoon River.  CARICOM noted that while Belizean military officers “acted with restraint and professionalism,” these actions “flagrantly violated Belize’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” CARICOM also reiterated its call for Belize and Guatemala to work with the Organization of American States (OAS) to establish an effective cooperation mechanism for the Sarstoon River and maritime spaces. Reaffirming its “unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize”.  Prime Minister Briceno commended Caricom for its statement.

John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “We helped write this statement, so of course I know this statement, and we support it 100%. CARICOM has been one of our strongest supporters, and they continue to support us, and we are very grateful for them to take on such a strong statement.”

CARICOM concluded by recalling the commitment of all states in the region to maintain the Caribbean as a “Zone of Peace.”