And while there is an overarching context of sustainability and respect for nature covering the meeting - there is also an environmentally troubling issue in the background.
Belize and Mexico have been discussing building a bridge over the Zaragoza Channel to connect Ambergris Caye with Xcalak, Mexico. The route would cut through Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The PM today acknowledged the troublesome environmental dimension of such a project:
John Briceno, Prime Minister of Belize
"That that bridge again, we still have a long way to go, but it is the whole idea or the vision for that bridges to be able to connect Ambergris Caye to Mexico and then the Riviera Maya can be connected, from San Pedro all the way to, to Cancun."
"And I know there are some environmental concerns that we have to consider, and we certainly will consider. We are a very, environmental, environmentally conscious government. So whatever we do has to be in consultation and to ensure that we protect. But as we say, all we want to do is to be able to build a bridge so that traffic can go through and all the way to Mexico and open again more trade opportunities and, opportunities with tourism also."
