BELMOPAN, Belize, Tues. Apr. 6, 2021– To strengthen the close and cordial relations between Belize and Taiwan, the ambassadors of both nations met with ministers of each other’s government to discuss bond-strengthening measures and intentions for further cooperation.

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, His Excellency, David K.C. Chien, met with the Minister of Youth, Sports and E-Governance, Hon. Kevin Bernard, to discuss initiatives to pave the way for a modern, digital era in Belize. The ministry in Belize aspires to achieve 95% digitization of services. Together, the officials of the two countries discussed means for building e-governance in Belize and also how Taiwan could help Belize achieve such a goal. Those in the meeting showed particular interest in providing internet access to rural communities.

A press release from the Government of Belize Press Office, said, “The Ministry of Youth, Sports and E-Governance looks forward to continued discussions and collaborations while building on the friendly relationship between Belize and Taiwan.”

H.E. Chien also met with the Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics, Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, at a breakfast meeting. The meeting addressed many topics. Among the topics discussed were Taiwan’s promise of future cooperation in the development of Belize’s transport system, the further implementation of renewable energy, the increase in training workshops and the increased efficiency of utility services in Belize.

Similarly, in Taiwan, H. E. Candice Pitts presented her credentials as Belize’s newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan, Joseph Wu. Minister Wu and H.E. Pitts used this opportunity to discuss many important issues of mutual concern. Ambassador Pitts underscored the importance of Belize-Taiwan relations and conveyed appreciation for Taiwan’s continued cooperation in funding projects beneficial to Belize, including the strengthening of Belize’s readiness to fend off the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ambassador Pitts commented that she expects the economic cooperation agreement signed between Taiwan and Belize in September 2020 to come into fruition and hopes that Taiwanese investment and trade groups will visit Belize following recovery from the pandemic.