Belmopan, February 23, 2024.
Today, Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, received a high-level delegation from the United States led by H.E. Uzra Zeya, Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights. H.E. Zeya concluded a series of productive meetings in Belize by expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality, and the unwavering support and partnership in Belize and the wider region.
The delegation underscored Belize’s leadership on humane migration, highlighting the successful co-chairmanship of the Migration Roundtable and praising initiatives such as the Amnesty Program. The discussions reinforced the importance of prioritizing issues of human rights and engagement with civil society, with a special emphasis on protecting marginalized members of society.
In recognition of Belize’s commitment to gender equality and combating gender-based violence, the delegation engaged in fruitful conversations with women legislative and policy leaders, acknowledging the significant progress being made in these critical areas.
The delegation also met with Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, Hon. Florencio Marin Jr; Minister of National Defence and Border Security; and Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries. Substantive discussions were held on security issues, reaffirming the strong partnership between the United States and Belize. The delegation stressed the importance of enhancing citizen and human-centred security, strengthening the justice sector, and securing Belize’s borders.
The United States delegation expressed gratitude for the productive discussions that reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing mutual interests and addressing common challenges in the Americas.
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