Belize Prepares to Lead Regional Finance Body Later This Year

Belize is preparing to take on a larger role in regional financial discussions as officials from the Council of Ministers of Finance of Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic, known as COSEFIN, wrapped up a four-day visit in the country this week.

From May 19 to 22, a COSEFIN delegation was in Belize to support the Ministry of Economic Transformation as it prepares to assume the Pro Tempore Presidency in July. During the visit, the team met with Prime Minister John Briceño, Minister of State Dr Osmond Martinez, and CEO Carlos Pol.

A key focus of the discussions was the Regional Strategy for Disaster Risk Financial Management, which is designed to help countries better prepare for and respond to the financial impact of hurricanes, floods, and other disasters.

Talks also covered ways to strengthen public financial management and improve coordination between member countries.

For Belize, the presidency is new territory. The country only recently joined COSEFIN, where leadership rotates among member states.