Belize Says Tren Maya Expansion Deal With Mexico Still A Long Way Off

Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca has cautioned that contrary to reports in the media, a definitive agreement for Mexico’s Tren Maya to extend into Belize is still a long way off. In a recent interview, Fonseca provided an update on the trilateral discussions that took place in Calakmul, Mexico, last week with leaders from Belize, Mexico, and Guatemala.  According to Minister Fonseca, the meeting primarily served as a platform for Mexican officials to present the status of the massive railway project to the Belize and Guatemalan delegations. He clarified that while the possibility of expansion was discussed, no formal agreement has been reached.

Fonseca stressed that any decision to join the Tren Maya project would require extensive analysis and stakeholder consultations within Belize. He highlighted the need to consider potential environmental impacts and other issues before advancing such an agreement.  The minister’s comments come amid reports from Mexican media suggesting the project’s expansion into Belize and Guatemala is imminent. However, Fonseca’s statement makes it clear that Belize’s participation is far from confirmed, as the country continues to weigh the potential economic benefits against the significant environmental and logistical challenges.