On Monday, February 1, 2021, the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in a regular session. The Prime Minister informed the Cabinet of the selection of 11 ambassadors who will occupy bi-lateral and multi-lateral posts abroad. These appointees together constitute a rather full representation of the community, since they are a mix of novices and veteran professionals, with a remarkable 40% of them being women.

The Cabinet evaluated developments in its efforts to safeguard trade preferences with the United Kingdom through the ratification of the CARIFORUM/ UK Economic Partnership Agreement. This will allow Belize to claim duty-free and quota-free access to the UK Market. Aside from traditional goods, Government will forego its options in areas of cooperation and private sector investments. Cabinet also approved the rehabilitation of the Sarteneja Village Water System by request of the Minister of Rural Transformation, Labour and Local Government, Hon. Oscar Requeña. The funds will be used to improve the reverse osmosis system.

Another noteworthy initiative that was approved by the Cabinet was its move to become a member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), an intergovernmental organization that forges cooperation in efforts to generate and promote renewable energy. This opens avenues that would allow us to benefit from funding, technology, and expertise, to stimulate Belize’s efforts in advancing the use and production of solar energy.

Also, Cabinet received updates on the institution of a fast-track unit for private sector investments. Additionally, it supported the motion to amend standing orders for the House of Representatives, which will be presented to the House of Representatives on Friday, February 5, 2021. The passing of this motion would reconstitute the Public Accounts Committee by adding three social partner senators to its membership.