India has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening relations with Belize, focusing on affordable healthcare and education partnerships. On the occasion of Belize’s 44th Independence Day, India’s Ambassador to Mexico, Pankaj Sharma, met Prime Minister John Briceño and conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed potential collaboration in low-cost healthcare through India’s flagship Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Pariyojna (PMBJP), which provides affordable medicines and medical devices to millions.
The Indian Embassy in Mexico described the meeting as an honor, emphasizing the importance of sharing India’s healthcare expertise with Belize. Extending congratulations, Sharma noted that partnerships in healthcare could deliver tangible benefits for Belizean citizens.
During his visit, Sharma also met Francis Fonseca, Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration. He thanked Fonseca for inviting India to participate in Diplomatic Week in Belize and underscored the growing cooperation between the two countries at bilateral and multilateral levels. India and Belize continue to collaborate in regional forums such as the Central American Integration System (SICA) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The Indian envoy highlighted the role of Honorary Consul Arun Hotchandani in promoting bilateral ties, praising his support and hospitality extended to the Indian community in Belize.
Belize’s Governor General, Froyla Tzalam, hosted a grand reception on the eve of Independence Day, welcoming diplomats from across the globe. The Indian Embassy, in a post on X, expressed gratitude to Tzalam, noting her emphasis on deepening India-Belize friendship and commitment to future cooperation.
In addition to healthcare, education emerged as another key area of focus. Last week, Sharma met Dian Maheia, CEO of Belize’s Ministry of Education, to explore new opportunities in academic collaboration. Discussions included greater participation in India’s flagship Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, a vital component of South-South cooperation that provides training and skill development.
These engagements underscore the expanding partnership between India and Belize, rooted in shared values and a mutual commitment to collaboration in healthcare, education, and multilateral diplomacy.
