Belize to send another diplomatic note over Guatemalan presence in Sarstoon

By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): The Government of Belize will issue another diplomatic note to Guatemala following the latest confrontation in the Sarstoon River.

Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca says Belize must continue formally recording its objection whenever Guatemalan forces exercise what the Government considers illegal authority in the area.

Fonseca said the latest incident highlights the difficulties that will remain until the International Court of Justice issues its final ruling on the territorial dispute.

Despite those challenges, he said Belize continues to pursue a peaceful approach and remains engaged in dialogue with Guatemala.

Fonseca noted that there was a heavy presence of Guatemalan military boats, along with civilian vessels, during the latest incident.

He said the positive outcome was that no one was injured and the situation did not escalate into a more serious confrontation.

Belizean security forces were still able to hold a flag raising ceremony at the Forward Operating Base, with members of the Belize Territorial Volunteers participating.

Fonseca said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue using both diplomatic protests and direct engagement with Guatemala.

He added that Prime Minister John Briceño also maintains communication with the Guatemalan government as part of efforts to avoid dangerous incidents.

Fonseca said the heavier Guatemalan military presence around the September celebrations period is not unusual because annual Belizean visits to the Sarstoon are publicly known.

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