Taipei:Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi received Belize's Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Anthony Mahler, along with a 10-member delegation, in Taipei City on November 6. The group is visiting Taiwan for five days, with their itinerary spanning until November 9.
According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of China (Taiwan), the delegation is led by Mahler and includes Thea Garcia-Ramirez, Belize's Minister of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs. The visit aims to enhance bilateral relations through discussions on various topics, including democracy, freedom, and sustainable tourism.
During the meeting, Deputy FM Chen highlighted the 37-year bond between Taiwan and Belize, emphasizing shared values of democracy and freedom. He acknowledged Belize's steadfast support for Taiwan's international presence, despite external pressures from China. Chen specifically mentioned Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño and Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca for their unwavering support.
Minister Mahler expressed aspirations to boost bilateral exchanges in sustainable tourism, given the rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage both nations possess. He lauded the Taiwan Caribbean Academy, an initiative by the International Cooperation Development Fund and Belize University, for its potential to advance vocational education in Belize's travel sector.
Additionally, Minister Garcia-Ramirez expressed her interest in understanding Taiwan's gender equality initiatives to explore cooperation that enhances women's economic independence and public engagement. The delegation's schedule includes visits to Taiwan's Ministries of Health and Welfare, Labor, and Sports, attendance at a Belize Embassy-hosted reception, and participation in the 2026 Taiwan International Travel Fair. MOFA stated that Taiwan is committed to deepening its partnership with Belize under integrated diplomacy and the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project.