Arguments end in D.C., facilitators respond by July

The presentation of oral arguments by Belize and Guatemala has been completed in Washington D.C. but the facilitators in the process could take as much as two more months to voice their recommendations. Accounts from neutral observers indicate that Belizean presenters, led by chief negotiator Assad Shoman, were well prepared and exposed the Guatemalan claim as totally out of step with the realities of the 21st Century, not to mention the 19th and 20th. Facilitators Sir Shridath Ramphal for Belize and Paul Reichler for Guatemala have said that they will deliver their recommendations before the end of July and will bring both parties together at that time to decide where the claim may be headed.