Belize maintains peaceful and cooperative relations with many countries and is active in regional and international diplomacy. As a small but strategically located country in Central America and the Caribbean, Belize leverages its English-speaking identity, Commonwealth ties, and regional partnerships to strengthen its global presence.
Foreign Relations of Belize: Overview
1. General Foreign Policy
Belize’s foreign policy is based on:
- Non-interference and peaceful coexistence
- Support for democracy, human rights, and international law
- Promotion of economic cooperation and development
2. Relationship with Guatemala
This is Belize’s most complex and sensitive diplomatic issue.
- Guatemala has long claimed part or all of Belizean territory (a legacy dispute).
- In 2019, both countries agreed to take the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for peaceful resolution.
- Despite the dispute, diplomatic and trade relations continue, and tensions remain mostly non-violent.
3. International Organizations
Belize is a member of:
- United Nations (UN)
- Commonwealth of Nations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Organization of American States (OAS)
- Central American Integration System (SICA)
- ACP Group of States
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- World Bank
These memberships give Belize access to aid, trade, and development programs.
4. Key Bilateral Relationships
United States
- Strong economic and security ties
- U.S. provides aid, military training, and investment
- Belize is a popular destination for U.S. tourists and retirees
United Kingdom
- Belize is a Commonwealth realm, with King Charles III as ceremonial monarch.
- Strong cultural and historical ties
- UK supports education, conservation, and governance projects
Mexico
- Important trade partner and neighbor
- Cooperation on security, tourism, culture, and transportation
- Shared border and frequent cross-border trade
Canada
- Development assistance and scholarships
- Growing Canadian expat and tourism presence
- Support in disaster response and governance
Cuba
- Strong health and education cooperation
- Cuban doctors and specialists serve in Belize
- Bilateral scholarships for Belizean students to study in Cuba
Taiwan (Republic of China)
- One of Belize’s closest diplomatic allies
- Taiwan supports Belize with:
- Infrastructure projects
- Healthcare and education funding
- Technology and disaster relief
- Belize recognizes Taiwan instead of the People’s Republic of China
5. Trade and Investment Partners
Belize trades most with:
- United States
- Mexico
- United Kingdom
- EU countries
- CARICOM members
Key exports: sugar, citrus, marine products, bananas, tourism services
6. Regional Relations
CARICOM (Caribbean Community)
- Belize is an active member
- Supports free movement, trade, and regional integration
- Hosts and attends regular CARICOM summits
Central America
- Member of SICA
- Works with neighbors on:
- Border security
- Migration and trade
- Environmental protection
7. Diplomatic Missions
- Belize has embassies or high commissions in:
- United States (Washington, D.C.)
- Mexico (Mexico City)
- Guatemala
- Cuba
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- Several countries also have embassies or consulates in Belize, especially the U.S., Mexico, and Central American states.
Summary Table
| Country/Region | Nature of Relationship |
|---|---|
| Guatemala | Territorial dispute, peaceful negotiations |
| United States | Strong economic, security, and aid ties |
| United Kingdom | Historic and Commonwealth ties |
| Mexico | Trade, border, and tourism cooperation |
| Taiwan | Major diplomatic and financial ally |
| Cuba | Health and education collaboration |
| CARICOM | Regional integration and trade |
| Central America | Regional cooperation via SICA |
