PM Briceño Addresses Belizeans from Commonwealth Summit in Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister John Briceño has released a prerecorded video message to Belizeans from Antigua and Barbuda, where he is representing the country at the twenty-eighth Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The summit brings together leaders and representatives of fifty-six member countries for discussions on investment, climate resilience, trade and sustainable development.  Speaking from St. John’s, Briceño addressed the Belizean public as he participates in the high-level gathering.

This year’s summit is being held under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.” A central focus is connecting development projects with potential financing. According to the Commonwealth Secretariat, twenty developing member countries have submitted investment-ready proposals valued at thirty-four billion dollars, covering areas including climate action, trade and youth employment.  At the opening ceremony, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne called for stronger trade links and faster access to climate financing. He also urged international partners to consider the particular vulnerabilities of small states when determining access to financial support.  Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey and King Charles the Third also addressed the gathering. The King highlighted proposals for habitat restoration, disaster insurance and renewable energy financing.  For Belize, the meeting provides an opportunity to pursue partnerships on climate resilience, investment and economic development. Business, youth, women’s and people’s forums are taking place alongside the leaders’ discussions.

Briceño left Belize on Sunday, November 1, and is scheduled to return on Friday. Deputy Prime Minister Cordel Hyde is acting as Prime Minister during his absence.