André Bauer Sworn-In as New US Ambassador to Belize

Belize will soon welcome a new United States (US) ambassador. André Bauer, a former South Carolina, USA legislator and two-term lieutenant governor, was sworn in as US Ambassador to Belize on August 20th and is expected to arrive in the country sometime in September. Belize has been without a US ambassador since Michelle Kwan concluded her tenure in January 2025. Since then, the US Embassy in Belmopan has been operating under the leadership of chargé d’affaires.
Bauer said he and his family are looking forward to moving to Belize, experiencing the country and its culture, and strengthening the relationship between Belize and the United States. Bauer told The San Pedro Sun that he is deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve as US Ambassador to Belize. “Belize and the United States share a strong and important relationship, and I look forward to building on that partnership in the years ahead,” he said. “My family and I are excited to make Belize our home, to get to know its people and communities, and to experience firsthand the warm hospitality for which Belize is known,” Bauer added, saying he is especially looking forward to listening, learning, and working together to strengthen ties between the two countries and advance their shared interests.
The US Embassy in Belize also commented on Bauer’s swearing-in as the country’s next ambassador. “Ambassador Bauer brings a deep commitment to public service, entrepreneurship, and American values to his new role in advancing administration priorities,” the embassy noted. The embassy encouraged followers on its social media platforms to stay tuned as Bauer begins his work and builds connections across Belize.
Bauer’s public service experience includes serving as Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina from 2003 to 2011. He also represented his state in both the South Carolina House of Representatives and the State Senate. His appointment comes as the Trump Administration continues filling diplomatic positions around the world, including in Belize.
Belize and the United States have long maintained close bilateral ties, cooperating in areas including security, trade, economic development, education, disaster preparedness, and regional stability.