TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Belize Ambassador to Taiwan Candice Pitts hailed the close Taiwan-Belize relations on Friday (Sept 20).
During a celebration marking the 43rd anniversary of Belizean independence (Sept. 21, 1981) Pitts thanked Taiwan for its friendship and support. She pointed out that the day also marks 35 years of diplomatic relations.
Since 1989, the collaboration between the two countries in areas such as education and healthcare, “contribute to Belize’s national development,” Pitts said.
She said around 300 Belizeans in Taiwan have received or are currently benefitting from a government-sponsored scholarship and other educational opportunities. A Taiwanese youth ambassador delegation recently visited Belize to learn more about the local culture.
Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng (張善政) also led a delegation to explore cooperation opportunities between Taoyuan and cities in Belize, she said.
The ambassador said that as the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize can help Taiwan achieve its 2030 English language policy. She said that the two countries signed an economic cooperation agreement in 2022, and there is hope for more mutually beneficial trade ties.
Additionally, Belize voices for Taiwan’s international participation in organizations including the UN and World Health Assembly, “to continue our advocacy for Taiwan’s well-deserved international legitimacy and recognition.”
In a video message, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) highlighted the deep cooperative partnership between Taiwan and Belize. The two countries have cooperated in infrastructure and environmental sustainability, Hsiao said.
She also noted that the Central American nation “has been a key advocate for Taiwan’s inclusion in the international community”. She reaffirmed President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) pledge to bolster ties with Belize and other democracies.