Belize and Costa Rica discussed sustainable ways of procuring vaccine

Belize and Costa Rica conducted a meeting on Thursday and discussed the bilateral political issues concerning both countries. The meeting was joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the two countries.

Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs Belize and Rodolfo Solano Quirós, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica, undertook the Second Bilateral Political Consultations between their respective countries.

The two ministers have launched an assessment into the state of bilateral relations between Belize and Costa Rica. They noted that the two countries would celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations later this year. Ministers also expressed views on COVID-19 response and recovery and, in this regard, discussed initiatives to fund their green, inclusive and sustainable recovery and access to vaccines.

On the regional front, ministers continued to discuss regional pressure migration exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and committing to continue to work together on this, as well as to combat drug trafficking. Both ministers reiterated their commitment to environmental protection, biodiversity and climate action.

Minister Courtenay praised Minister Solano for the excellent way in which his country is fulfilling its mandate as President Pro Tempore of SICA.

Costa Rica also congratulated Belize on the appointment of Dr Carla Barnett, a Belizean, as the next Secretary-General of CARICOM and expressed confidence in the strengthening of relations between the two sub-regions.

The ministers agreed to review with a view to existing activations in tourism, culture and a bilateral cooperation framework.

Minister Courtenay was accompanied by his delegation, which includes Ambassador Amalia Mai, CEO; Orla Kantun Coleman, Director of International Affairs (Collaboration); Ayesha Borland, Director of International Affairs (Policy); Emil Waight and Amaris Leal, Foreign Service Officers.