Belize Invited to Join SICA’s Economic Arm…

Ret. Col. George Lovell

Since assuming pro tem presidency of the Central American Integration System, SICA, a few weeks ago, Belize has wasted little time in addressing the regional needs of the organization’s membership.  A daylong session involving the heads of department within SICA was held at the Biltmore on Monday, where Belize discussed its interim chairmanship, as well as the achievement of its Millennium Development Goals.  Acting Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs George Lovell told News Five today that Belize is also seeking membership in the Central American Integrated Economic System, SIECA.

Ret. Col. George Lovell, Acting CEO, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

“We first of all assembled to discuss Belize’s presidency pro tempore for SICA over the next five months or so.  We looked at the existing projects and programs that SICA had and to see how we can refocus those as we go forward.  Belize, as you know, has its 2015 Millennium Development Goals and the concept under which Belize is having this presidency pro tempore is basically within those Millennium Development Goals.  We have, as thematic areas that we are looking at, security as being one, the economy, we are looking at strengthening, institutional strengthening for Belize and for the region.  We also are looking at climate change and social integration.”

Isani Cayetano

“In terms of economics, I understand that Belize is in the process of making moves towards becoming a member of SIECA.  Can you speak to us briefly on that?”

Ret. Col. George Lovell

“All the other Central American countries are very much already a part of the economic pillars of SICA.  Belize is just trying now to be a member and during this presidency pro tempore we certainly will be a member just like the other Central American countries.”

Isani Cayetano

“What are some of the requirements necessary for us to be able to join that group of countries?”

Ret. Col. George Lovell

“In terms of the requirement, it’s just a matter for us to be a part of SICA, which we are a part of SICA. Unfortunately for us we, in the past, have focused on the other pillars, democratic security being one of the major pillars because of the security concerns that we have in the area.  As you know, Central America is one of the areas where most of our economic activities are now being developing and growing.  In the past it had always been with CARICOM but in recent times more so we have been doing business with Central America.  So it’s important that we join in SICA along this line.”