Belize, El Salvador initiate negotiations for Partial Scope Agreement

Photo Credit: MAFSE

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The First Round of Negotiations for a Partial Scope Agreement between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador began on Monday in Belmopan, with Agriculture Minister Jose Abelardo Mai representing Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Eamon Courtney.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise said in a statement that the start of negotiations is a crucial step in enhancing the diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

Minister Mai welcomed the launch of trade talks with El Salvador, calling for cooperation and mutual benefits for both countries.

He expressed his appreciation for the long-standing relationship between Belize and El Salvador, noting the deep cultural and historical bonds and the role of trade agreements in boosting economic development, strengthening diplomatic relations, and creating opportunities for collaboration. Mai said the negotiations are more than just a document, but a symbol of a shared vision for a future of mutual prosperity and understanding.

Minister Jose Abelardo Mai at First Round of Negotiations for a Partial Scope Agreement between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador – (Photo Credit: MAFSE)

Minister Mai highlighted the main goals of the agreement, such as providing preferential margins on tariffs, removing non-tariff barriers, ensuring legal protection for investments, and increasing bilateral cooperation. He said the negotiations were the basis for guiding the countries in facilitating, promoting, diversifying, and expanding trade.

“The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation through technical cooperation and capacity-building activities,” MAFSE said.

“Areas such as sanitary and phyto-sanitary measures, innovation, production, technology, distribution, marketing, and financing will be the focus to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive economic partnership. Emphasis was placed on the establishment of an efficient, transparent, and effective system to resolve trade disputes, reflecting a commitment to fostering a healthy and resilient economic partnership.”

El Salvador’s Head of Delegation and Trade Policy Director in the Ministry of Economy Raquel Martínez at First Round of Negotiations for a Partial Scope Agreement between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador – (Photo Credit: MAFSE)

In addition to the technical aspects, Minister Mai highlighted the deep significance of the relationship between the two countries, focusing on common history, cultural ties, and a dedication to regional stability.

The ceremony marking the start of the negotiations was attended by Ambassador Emile Mena – Co-chair of the National Negotiating Commission Ambassador Emile Mena, El Salvador’s Head of Delegation and Trade Policy Director in the Ministry of Economy Raquel Martínez, Chief Executive Officers of the Belize Government, members of the Diplomatic Corp, technical negotiators, and invited guests.

Photographs of  First Round of Negotiations for a Partial Scope Agreement between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador courtesy of the Ministry of Agriculture (MAFSE):

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