Tag:
Prime Minister John Briceno
Government
United States Donates Cessna Caravan Aircraft to the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security
The Government of the United States donated a Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft to the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security at a handover ceremony on March 1, 2023 at the Williamson Hanger Complex in Ladyville. The aircraft was donated by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) through the United States Foreign Military Financing program.
Government
Millennium Challenge Corporation CEO Visits Belize to Discuss U.S. Grant Program
A delegation from the U.S. government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) led by Chief Executive Officer Alice Albright departed Belize on March 17th after a productive visit to introduce the agency’s development grant program – an MCC compact.
Business & Economy
Government to discontinue 10% salary cut for public officers
Public officers across the country are welcoming the news from the government that they will be receiving back the 10% of their salaries that had been taken away from them by the new administration in the new fiscal year. When the current government headed by Prime Minister John Briceno took office in 2020, they found it necessary to apply the salary cut to help build back the national economy devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although public officers rejected the pay cut, they endured the salary reduction for months. According to PM Briceno, as of July 1st, all public servants will receive their full wage.Â
Government
Belize and Mexico Hold Ministerial Meeting to Discuss Formal Trade Agreement
On February 2, 2022, Belize and Mexico met virtually to advance discussions for a trade agreement between the two countries. Belize's delegation was led by the Hon. Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration, while the Mexican delegation was led by Señora Tatiana Clouthier Carrillo, Secretary of the Economy.
Government
Prime Minister sees the possibility to connect Ambergris Caye with Mexico
Following Prime Minister John Briceño's state visit to Mexico last month, the idea to connect northern Ambergris Caye with the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula via a bridge was one of the proposed projects discussed. Mexico is currently working on a 948-mile intercity railway system dubbed 'Tren Maya,' beginning from Palenque, Chiapas traveling northeast to Quintana Roo and Yucatan near Belize. The aim is to connect tourist destinations in the said region by offering access to pristine destinations and even hop across the border into Belize.
Community and Society
New COVID-19 variant detected in Belize; government introduces new regulations
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) confirmed on Wednesday, June 30th, that a variant of the COVID-19 virus had been detected in Belize. Several samples have been sent to Baylor University in Texas, USA, to conduct gene sequencing and determine which variant is in the country. New measures to contain the sharp increase in infections were also announced and will go into effect on Sunday, July 4th.
Business & Economy
Increased fuel prices have far-reaching effects on island economy
Many island residents are concerned about the constant increase in fuel prices in Belize and if it will reflect in the cost of living, as most of the island’s products are transported via barge from Belize City to San Pedro Town.
Government
Government of Belize Cabinet Briefing for March 24, 2021
The Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in regular session on March 23, 2021. Among the issues discussed were: GOB's response to the unions’ latest correspondence and its intent to continue further discussions in good faith and the approval of the plan from the Ministry of Education for the phased return to face-to-face instruction of schools at all levels and sectors across the country beginning April 12, 2021.
