Belize Engages in IDB Regional Meeting

Christopher Coye, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment, represented Belize at a meeting of Central American Governors convened by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in Guatemala City earlier this month. The gathering focused on the “America En El Centro: Development Program for Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic – 2024-2030.”

 

The programme aims to address significant regional challenges such as low productivity, social disparities, fiscal constraints, and climate vulnerability, complementing national efforts by fostering cross-border development across Central America, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. Key priorities include enhancing productivity and economic integration, bolstering climate resilience, and promoting opportunities for women and youth through targeted investments.

During the meeting, Minister Coye emphasized Belize’s interest in establishing a new road infrastructure between Central America and Southeastern Mexico (Yucatan and Quintana Roo) via Jalacte, Belize, to serve as a vital logistics corridor. This initiative seeks to improve market access to Southeastern Mexico and CARICOM nations, potentially unlocking substantial trade and investment opportunities for Belize and the wider region. Additionally, Minister Coye expressed Belize’s intention to join the regional electricity transmission grid system (SIEPAC).

Minister Coye also engaged in discussions with Mr. Francisco Lima Mena, Secretary General of the Central American Economic Integration Secretariat (SIECA), regarding Belize’s aspiration to become an observer member of SIECA. This status would enable Belize to actively participate in and stay informed about regional economic integration efforts, including initiatives such as the Regional Master Plan 2035 on Mobility and Logistics.