Belize seeks to strengthen ties with South Korea: Bilateral talks focused on economic development and education

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Today, an esteemed Belize delegation led by Prime Minister John Briceño met with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo at the Seoul Government Complex for a landmark bilateral meeting aimed at boosting economic ties and academic exchange between the two nations.

Accompanying PM Briceño were Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration; H.E. Jaime Briceño, Belize’s Ambassador of Investment and to the Holy See; and Dr. Osmond Martinez, CEO of the Ministry of Economic Development. The delegation sought South Korea’s support for Belize’s bid to join the World Bank’s International Development Association, which, if approved, would unlock significant grants and concessionary financing for climate finance projects in Belize. Furthermore, Belize made a request for consideration under the Korean Economic Development Co-operation Fund, which offers a low-interest line of credit.

In response, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo proposed a generous donation of US$1 million in IT equipment and US$3 million to bolster the operations of the Statistical Institute of Belize. The South Korean Prime Minister also expressed a keen interest in enhancing trade opportunities, sharing expertise in the agro-productive sector, and fostering a scholarship program for Belizean students.

PM Briceño conveyed his sincere gratitude to the South Korean government for its ongoing support to Belize, notably in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery initiatives after hurricanes Eta and Iota. The Belize delegation concluded their day with a meeting with Mayor Park Heong-joon of Busan Metropolitan City, where they discussed potential student exchange programs focusing on oceanography.

These diplomatic talks demonstrate a commitment to strengthening relations between Belize and South Korea, with a shared vision of economic development, knowledge sharing, and educational advancement.