Belize has steadily advanced its national goals – CARICOM SG

(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) - As Belize marks its 43^rd Anniversary of Independence on 21 September, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has lauded the country for steadily advancing its national goals and laying the groundwork for a brighter and more secure future.

In a message to the Government and the people of Belize, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett stated that Belize has emerged as a champion of the environment through efforts to diligently protect both its marine and forest ecosystems. This, while advocating staunchly for stronger global efforts to combat climate change, a priority for our Region, the Secretary-General said in the message.

The Caribbean Community also recognises the contributions that Belize has made to the regional integration movement as a CARICOM Member State, including in Justice and Governance, for which the country’s Prime Minister holds responsibility in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet.

The full message reads as follows:

“Prime Minister,

I take great pleasure in extending warmest congratulations, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), to the Government and People of Belize on this Forty-Third Anniversary of Independence.

The theme for this year’s celebration “A Nation Proud and Free: Belize@43” speaks to Belize’s rich heritage and strong foundations, as well as the deep-seated resilience of the People of Belize and their determination to shape a prosperous and thriving nation.

In the 43 years since independence, Belize has steadily advanced its national goals, laying the groundwork for a brighter and more secure future. Belize has emerged as a champion of the environment through efforts to diligently protect both its marine and forest ecosystems, while advocating staunchly for stronger global efforts to combat climate change, a priority for our Region.

The Caribbean Community also recognises the contributions that Belize has made to the regional integration movement as a CARICOM Member State, including in Justice and Governance, for which you, Prime Minister, hold responsibility in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet.

Further, the membership of Belize in both CARICOM and the Central American Integration System (SICA) has proven key to bolstering relations between the Community and Central America. The Caribbean Community looks forward to continued cooperation between the Government of Belize and CARICOM towards this end.

CARICOM joins the Government and People of Belize in celebration, and extends best wishes for the nation’s continued peace and prosperity.”