Former Colombian president speaks on Belize/Guatemala dispute

Former Colombian President Cesar Gaviria spent the weekend in Belize as a member of the board of OCEANA directors. Gaviria is known in Latin America as a conflict mediator and a defender of human rights. He served two terms as Secretary General of the Organization of American States and visited Belize in that capacity. Gaviria was involved in the negotiations with Guatemalan the territorial claim to Belize. Since the case appears to be heading to the International Court of Justice, Gaviria spoke to News Five about the way forward for Belize. But interestingly enough, Gaviria feels that even if the dispute is settled, the problem of migrants building villages along the border may not go away.

Cesar Gaviria, Former President of Colombia
“Well, I think you have much better knowledge on both sides, what are the issues and I think that helps a lot. Five years ago there was no knowledge on the Guatemalan side but also on Belize side; which were the issues? What the solutions would be, how to change certain things. I think there is much more awareness of that today.”

Jose Sanchez
“Do you think that Belize and Guatemala can solve the constant disputes that arise from poor Guatemalan villagers who keep incursions over our side and build villages? It is constant. Can it be solved?”

Cesar Gaviria
“I think we have to be aware that some of the problems are not because of the dispute but because you have a very large border and problems will keep coming, even if you settle the dispute. You will not avoid it, as you cannot avoid the problem with Mexico and U.S. and the border. They will have problems every time.”