(CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown, Guyana) The Bureau of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, having been seized of ongoing events in Belize, expresses its deep concern over the situation in that Member State. The Bureau is alarmed at the reports of violence, looting and deliberate acts of sabotage, which have affected the personal security of the people of Belize and have had a negative impact on its economy.

The Bureau wishes to call on all Belizeans at this time, to respect the rule of Law, to abide by the Constitution of Belize and to engage in a process of dialogue in order to resolve in the national interest, such outstanding issues as confront the nation.

The Bureau also reminds all Belizeans of the need to adhere to the principles enshrined in the Charter of Civil Society of the Caribbean Community and in the Inter-American Democratic Charter, both of which endorse their right to the free expression of their political beliefs, in a peaceful manner.

The Bureau, on behalf of the entire Community, will continue to follow closely, developments in Belize, and stands ready to assist the people of Belize at this time.