Belizeans and Mexicans talk free trade

The much criticized proposal for a free trade agreement between Belize and Mexico will be the subject of talks to be held this week in Mexico City. A Belize delegation consisting primarily of government employees left today for the meeting which will serve to let officials of both countries get better acquainted before formal negotiations actually begin at a date still to be determined. The proposed free trade agreement was first discussed at a meeting held in December 1997 in Belize City. It was widely perceived in the Belizean business community as being highly advantageous to Mexico, while offering Belize little. The Belize side is led by Minister of Trade and Industry Fred Martinez.