International Leaders Celebrate Belize’s 43rd Independence

Thousands of Belizeans filled the streets of cities, towns, and villages across the nation on Saturday as Belize celebrated 43 years of independence. 

In Belmopan, the Prime Minister, John Briceño, and other leaders delivered speeches during the annual ceremony at Independence Hill. In his Independence Day Address, Briceño stated, “We are 400,000 living on some of the most pristine islands, in picturesque villages, in bustling cities and towns, small communities of diverse people whose aspirations are for the creation of one nation. Proud and free.”

 

 

Briceño urged Belizeans to look beyond their differences: “A true-born Belizean looks not at another Belizean’s differences, but at what are those things we share in common. We learnt this from our ancestors, who toiled, often against the odds, to build a resilient nation. Despite the odds which subjected them to a cruel colonialism, they left for us a moral compass, suasion, that is today inspired in us. The desire to construct societies that celebrate diversity, appreciate openness and value social justice, liberty, and national happiness. They instill in us the importance of protecting and sharing our natural patrimony.”

Messages of congratulations came from various nations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasised the shared commitment to democracy and cooperation on issues such as climate change: “September 21 serves not only as an opportunity to recognise Belize’s independence but also to celebrate the strong partnership between the United States and Belize. Our enduring bond is anchored by our shared commitments to democratic values, the rule of law, and respect for human rights for all… Our respective and joint efforts to combat transnational crime and address climate change help ensure future generations of our peoples have a safe, secure, and clean future,” citing the signing of the $125 million Millennium Challenge Corporation Belize Compact. 

 

 

In a message to the Belizean people, CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, a Belizean herself, praised Belize for its contributions to regional integration and environmental protection. She stated, “The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘A Nation Proud and Free: Belize@43’ speaks to Belize’s rich heritage and strong foundations.” 

Dr. Barnett highlighted Belize’s role as a leader in environmental protection. “The Caribbean Community also recognises the contributions that Belize has made to the regional integration movement as a CARICOM member state, including in justice and governance, for which the country’s prime minister holds responsibility in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet,” the Secretary-General said. 

She acknowledged Belize’s membership in both CARICOM and the Central American Integration System (SICA) “has proven key to bolstering relations between the Community and Central America.”