In response to recent incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belize, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, said:
“I am deeply disturbed by recent reports that the Guatemalan Army hoisted their flag on Belizean territory, attempted to intercept a Belizean military vessel, and obstructed Belizeans from using the Sarstoon River.
“Such actions threaten regional stability and risk undermining the growth of stronger ties between these neighbouring countries. They are unacceptable. I unequivocally condemn them.
“I commend the Belizean military for responding with professionalism and restraint on each occasion to avoid further escalation, while asserting Belize’s legal position.
“I join regional partners, including CARICOM, to urge restraint, and respect for international law and state sovereignty. I call for peaceful dialogue to resolve this territorial dispute.
“I also appeal to Guatemala to choose peace for the benefit of both nations and to refrain from actions which escalate tensions, particularly in the Sarstoon River area.
“I encourage both countries to continue to seek a peaceful resolution through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and to promptly fulfil their commitment to creating a cooperation mechanism for the Sarstoon River and maritime areas with the support of the Organization of American States.
“I urge all parties to intensify efforts towards constructive dialogue, respect for international agreements and lasting peace.
“I reaffirm the position of Commonwealth Heads of Government and the Ministerial Committee on Belize, which includes support for the ICJ process, the development of the cooperation mechanism, and full adherence to confidence-building measures by the parties.
“The region and the world are watching. The Commonwealth continues to affirm the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize, a treasured member of our 56-nation Commonwealth family.”
Note to editors:
At the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Commonwealth Heads of Government unanimously expressed strong support for the ongoing ICJ process regarding Guatemala’s territorial, insular, and maritime claims against Belize. They condemned illegal encroachments and urged Guatemala to respect and implement the existing confidence-building measures.
Media contact
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Snober Abbasi, Senior Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat
