Belize, UNDP Hold Talks on New Country Programme and Human Rights

Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, led by Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca, along with Chief Executive Officer Amalia Mai, recently held a bilateral meeting with Michael Lund of the United Nations Development Programme.  Last week’s meeting focused on preparations for Belize’s next country programme document, which will guide cooperation between the Government of Belize and the UNDP in the coming years. Discussions also covered ongoing initiatives, including the development of a national human rights institute, as well as other areas of support being provided by the UN agency.  Minister Fonseca and CEO Mai were joined by Ambassador Ayesha Borland, Director of International Affairs, and Foreign Service Officer Cindy Novelo. Lund was accompanied by UNDP Belize Team Lead Amilin Mendez.  While government officials say the engagement reflects continued collaboration with international partners to advance national development goals, such discussions typically form part of routine diplomatic and planning processes between Belize and multilateral organizations.  The outcome of the upcoming country programme document is expected to shape future projects and funding priorities, particularly in areas related to governance, human rights, and sustainable development.