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Reunión del Grupo de Amigos de Belize y Guatemala5 de junio de 2018Sede de la OEA, Washington, DC  El 5 de junio, los Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize y Guatemala, el Honorable Wilfred Elrington y Su Excelencia Sandra Jovel, junto con el Secretario General de la OEA, Luis Almagro, y el Representante Especial de SG de la OEA para Asuntos de Belize-Guatemala, Washington Abdala, se reunieron con los miembros del Grupo de Amigos de Belize y Guatemala. Las partes informaron al Grupo de Amigos sobre los acontecimientos recientes en el proceso de Belize y Guatemala, el referéndum reciente de Guatemala, así como las campañas de información a nivel nacional planificadas para Belize, en el período antes a su propio referéndum el 10 de abril de 2019.   Segunda reunión de la Comisión Conjunta Belize-Guatemala10 de mayo, 2018Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala  El 10 de mayo, la Comisión Conjunta Belize-Guatemala se reunió por la segunda vez este año, bajo el auspicio de la OEA, para discutir el estado de los acuerdos bilaterales. La reunión estuvo encabezada por los Comisionados de ambos países, el embajador de Belize en Guatemala, Alexis Rosado, y el embajador de Guatemala en Belize, George de la Roche; así como el Representante Especial para Asuntos de Belize-Guatemala, Washington Abdala. Press Release La Cultura Garífuna Guatemalteca y Belizeña8 y 9 de abril de 2018Guatemala  Los días 8 y 9 de abril, la delegación de la OEA encabezada por el Representante del Secretario General de la OEA para Asuntos Belize-Guatemala, Washington Abdala, asistió a un evento de Belize y Guatemala en la ciudad de Guatemala. El foro se tituló " La Cultura Garífuna Guatemalteca y Belizeña como Expresión de Cohesión Social, Dialogo Intercultural y Fomento de la Paz". El objetivo del evento fue promover el diálogo intercultural y una cultura de paz en ambos países, así como mostrar la coexistencia histórica de las comunidades que viven en las fronteras de Livingston y Puerto Barrios, Izabal, Guatemala, y los distritos de Toledo y Stann Creek en Belize. Reunión de la Comisión Conjunta14 de marzo de 2018Teakettle, Belize  El 14 de marzo, el embajador de Belize en Guatemala, Alexis Rosado, y el embajador de Guatemala en Belize, George de la Roche, se reunieron en el Teakettle, Belize, bajo el auspicio de la OEA, para discutir la agenda bilateral y reactivar la Comisión Conjunta Belize - Guatemala según lo establecido en el Marco del Acuerdo sobre Medidas de Fomento de la Confianza de 2005. También encargó a la Comisión Conjunta que garantice la pronta implementación de los acuerdos de cooperación firmados en Placencia, Belize en diciembre de 2014, así como a desarrollar un plan de trabajo para futuras iniciativas destinadas a promover la confianza y la buena relación entre los dos países. La Comisión Conjunta se reunirá nuevamente en abril de 2018. Reunión Mensual de Comandantes de BatallónMarch 14, 2018El Remate, Flores, Petén, Guatemala  On March 14, 2018 Battalion Commanders from the Belizean Defence Force and the Guatemalan Army, under the auspicious of the OAS, met at El Remate, Flores, Petén, Guatemala, to exchange information regarding the current state of security in the Adjacency Zone. Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize y Guatemala en la Oficina de la Organización de Estados Americanos en la Zona de Adyacencia (OEA/ZA)28 de Febrero de 2018Oficina de OEA/ZA Los Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize y Guatemala, sus Excelencias Wilfred Elrington y Sandra Jovel, juntamente con el Representante del Secretario General para los Asuntos Belize/Guatemala Washington Abdala y el Director del Departamento de Sustentabilidad Democrática y Misiones Especiales de la OEA Steven Griner, estuvieron en la oficina de la OEA en la ZA el 27 de febrero de 2018 para tratar la agenda bilateral, también se discutió sobre los preparativos para los referéndums en ambos países y hubo una presentación sobre los proyectos de desarrollo en las comunidades de la ZA. Ambos Ministros expresaron su apoyo al fortalecimiento de la Oficina de la OEA/ZA. La reunión termino con una presentación cultural hecha por los estudiantes del programa Cultura de Paz.   Reuniones del nuevo Representante Especial del SG de la OEA para Asuntos de Belize-Guatemala12 de febrero de 2018Sede de la OEA, Washington, DC El 12 de febrero de 2018, el nuevo Representante Especial de SG de la OEA para Asuntos de Belize-Guatemala, Washington Abdala, asistió a sus primeras reuniones en Washington, DC con el Secretario General Luis Almagro y su Jefe de Gabinete, Embajador Gonzalo Koncke. Luego de la reunión con el Secretario General, el Sr. Abdala se reunió con los embajadores de Belize y Guatemala para analizar la situación política actual y coordinar la agenda de su primera visita oficial a los países vecinos y la Oficina de la OEA en la ZA.  El nuevo Representante Especial es responsable de facilitar las negociaciones políticas y diplomáticas entre los Gobiernos de Belize y Guatemala encaminadas a encontrar una solución pacífica y permanente a su diferendo.   Él Señor Abdala supervisará las operaciones de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia Belize-Guatemala, la única misión civil de mantenimiento de la paz de la OEA desplegada para aliviar las tensiones entre Estados. Clausura del 3er Curso de Bordado a Mano9 de febrero de 2018Oficina OEA / AZ  Se realizó un tercer curso de bordado a mano del 22 al 9 de febrero de 2018, en la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. El curso fue impartido por el Instituto Técnico de Capacitación guatemalteco bajo los auspicios del Fondo de Paz de la OEA. El curso de bordado fue completado por 15 mujeres de la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala que aprendieron diferentes técnicas de bordado a mano. Los vestidos que usan los participantes fueron hechos a mano individualmente a lo largo del curso. Reunión del Grupo de Amigos de Belize y Guatemala31 de enero de 201Sede de la OEA, Washington, DC  El 31 de enero, los Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize y Guatemala, el Honorable Wilfred Elrington y Su Excelencia Sandra Jovel, junto con el Secretario General de la OEA, Luis Almagro, y el Director del Departamento de Sustentabilidad Democratica y Misiones Especiales, Steven Griner, se reunieron con los miembros del Grupo de Amigos de Belize y Guatemala. Las partes informaron al Grupo de Amigos sobre los acontecimientos recientes en el proceso de Belize y Guatemala, así como sobre las actividades futuras destinadas a la implementación de las medidas de fomento de la confianza de los dos países. Además, discutieron el papel crucial que desempeña la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia para mantener la paz sobre el terreno, aliviando las tensiones y facilitando así el diálogo político en curso. La última reunión del Grupo de Amigos fue en agosto de 2016.  Sesión Especial del Consejo Permanente31 de enero de 2018Sede de la OEA, Washington, DC  Los Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize y Guatemala, el Honorable Wilfred Elrington y Su Excelencia Sandra Jovel hicieron presentaciones al Consejo Permanente Especial de la OEA sobre Belize-Guatemala, brindando información actualizada sobre el estado del proceso de resolución de la disputa territorial entre sus respectivos países. Ambos Cancilleres también solicitaron un esfuerzo conjunto para recaudar fondos para el mantenimiento de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia, que funciona como una misión civil de mantenimiento de la paz desde 2003. La sesión finalizó con la presentación del Informe del Fondo de Paz sobre el Proceso de Belize y Guatemala. INFORME DEL FONDO DE PAZ PRESENTADO ANTE EL CONSEJO PERMANENTE DE CONFORMIDAD CON LA RESOLUCIÓN 781 (1257/00) (1 de marzo de 2011 – 30 de septiembre de 2017) English | Español GALERÍA DE FOTOS Reunión de Cancilleres de Belize y Guatemala con el Secretario General de la OEA31 de enero de 2018Sede de la OEA, Washington, DC  Antes de la presentación de Belize y Guatemala en el Consejo Permanente Especial, los Cancilleres se reunieron con el Secretario General de la OEA, para discutir el apoyo de la OEA a sus próximas Campañas de Información sobre sus respectivos referendos para llevar el reclamo territorial, insular y marítimo de Guatemala a la Corte Internacional de Justicia para el acuerdo final. Los Ministros también abordaron la necesidad de evitar incidentes y tensiones entre los dos países, así como de continuar fortaleciendo sus relaciones bilaterales.  Agua, Paz y Educación11 al 13 de diciembre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  Un taller para líderes en "Paz, Agua y Educación", basado en el programa Agua y Educación del proyecto OEA-UNESCO / IHP-WET, se realizó del 11 al 13 de diciembre de 2017 en la Oficina de la OEA en la adyacencia Belize-Guatemala Zona. El taller fue llevado a cabo por el Departamento de Desarrollo Sostenible en coordinación con la UNESCO, bajo los auspicios del Fondo de Paz de la OEA. El curso fue completado por 26 jóvenes líderes de la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala que están capacitados para replicar estos entrenamientos en sus remolques, comunidades y región. En general, la capacitación fue sobre el alcance de los recursos hídricos en la región, así como las técnicas didácticas para desarrollar habilidades y aptitudes que permitan a los participantes entrenados en el taller liderar una capacitación en el futuro.   Taller de bordado2 de noviembre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ   Del 16 de octubre al 3 de noviembre se llevó a cabo un curso de bordado a mano en la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. El curso fue impartido por el Instituto Técnico de Capacitación guatemalteco bajo los auspicios del Fondo de Paz de la OEA. El curso de bordado fue completado por 15 mujeres de la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala que aprendieron diferentes técnicas de bordado a mano. Los vestidos que usan los participantes fueron hechos a mano individualmente a lo largo del curso. La reunión de alcaldes en la Oficina de OEA / AZ27 de octubre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ   El 27 de octubre de 2017, los alcaldes de Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize y Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala se reunieron en la Oficina de la OEA / AZ con funcionarios del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y líderes comunitarios de los pueblos de El Arenal, Belize y El Arenal, Guatemala para abordar el impacto de las recientes inundaciones en el área. Funcionarios británicos visitan Oficina OEA / AZ25 de octubre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 25 de octubre, la nueva Comisionada británica para Belize, la Sra. Clare Bruce, visitó la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala para conocer de primera mano el trabajo de la Oficina de la OEA / AZ y recibir información sobre los desarrollos recientes en el proceso de manos del Director Interino de la OEA, el Sr. Juan Carlos Sagastume. La Sra. Bruce estuvo acompañada por la Alta Comisionada Británica Adjunta saliente, la Sra. Grace Chun. Referéndum sobre disputa territorial que se celebrará en Guatemala el 15 de abril de 201823 de octubre de 2017Guatemala  El 2 de agosto de 2017, el Congreso guatemalteco respaldó la decisión de celebrar el referéndum y encomendó al Tribunal Supremo Electoral que iniciara los preparativos para su convocatoria. Posteriormente, el 23 de octubre de 2017, el Tribunal Supremo Electoral emitió el llamado al referéndum en presencia del Presidente de Guatemala. La fecha que se ha fijado para que tenga lugar la consulta popular es el 15 de abril de 2018. Reunión Mensual de Comandantes del Batallón Belize-Guatemala18 de octubre de 2017Log Cab Inn, San Ignacio, Distrito de Cayo  El 18 de octubre de 2017, los Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y el Ejército de Guatemala, con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA, se reunieron en Log Cab Inn en San Ignacio, Distrito de Cayo, Belize, donde intercambiaron información sobre el estado actual de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. El Gobernador de Peten, Guatemala, visita la Oficina de la OEA / AZ16 de octubre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 16 de octubre, la Gobernadora del Distrito de Petén, República de Guatemala, Adriana Girón Arango, visitó la Zona de Adyacencia para conocer de primera mano el trabajo de la Oficina de la OEA / AZ y recibir información sobre los desarrollos más recientes en el Proceso de Belize y Guatemala del Director Interino de la OEA, Sr. Juan Carlos Sagastume. Taller de bordado29 de septiembre de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  Del 11 al 29 de septiembre de 2017 se llevó a cabo un curso de bordado a mano en la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. El curso fue impartido por el Instituto Técnico de Capacitación guatemalteco bajo los auspicios del Fondo de Paz de la OEA. El curso de bordado fue completado por 15 mujeres de la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala que aprendieron diferentes técnicas de bordado a mano. Los vestidos que usan los participantes fueron hechos a mano individualmente a lo largo del curso. Delegación de la Unión Europea visita la Oficina AZ de la OEA19 de septiembre de 2017Oficina de la OEA / AZ  El 19 de septiembre, una delegación de Embajadores de la Unión Europea, encabezada por Su Excelencia Malgorzatta Wasilewska, visitó la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia para conocer de primera mano el trabajo de la Oficina de la OEA / AZ y recibir información sobre los desarrollos más recientes en el proceso por parte de la Representante Especial del Secretario General de la OEA para Asuntos de Belize-Guatemala, Magdalena Talamas. Los estudiantes del programa de cultura de la paz promovido por la Oficina ofrecieron una actuación musical en honor de la delegación. La Unión Europea es el principal contribuyente al proyecto titulado "Implementación de las Medidas de Fomento de la Confianza en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala", bajo el cual opera la Oficina de OEA / AZ. Otros dignatarios que formaban parte de la delegación incluían al Alto Comisionado británico en Belize, Su Excelencia Peter Hughes; Su Excelencia Dylan Vernon, Embajador de Belize ante la Unión Europea; y Su Excelencia el Embajador Said Guerra, a cargo de Protocolo y Asuntos Consulares en el Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize. Los embajadores de Bélgica, Finlandia, Francia, Alemania, Italia, Polonia y España también estuvieron entre los invitados especiales. Reunión con el viceministro beliceño y el senador estadounidense Engels17 de septiembre de 2017Oficina de la OEA / AZ  El 17 de septiembre, el Representante Especial de la SG de la OEA para Asuntos de Belize y Guatemala tuvo una productiva reunión con el congresista estadounidense Eliot Engels y el consejero delegado de Belize MFA Amb. Patrick Andrews para discutir el papel de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala Reunión de Comandantes del Batallón Belize-Guatemala16 de agosto de 2017Belize  El 16 de agosto, los Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y el Ejército de Guatemala se reunieron en Log Cab Inns, San Ignacio, CayoDistrict, Belize, con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA, para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. Reunión de Comandantes del Batallón Belize-Guatemala12 de julio de 2017Oficina de la OEA / AZ  El 17 de mayo, los Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y el Ejército de Guatemala se reunieron con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA en La Polvora, Melchor de Mencos, Petén, Guatemala para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. Grupo de trabajo de la Comisión Conjunta6 de julio de 2017Oficina de la OEA / AZ  El 6 de julio, la Unidad de Límites Internacionales del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize celebró una reunión con los directores y maestros del Distrito de Cayo, Belize, para analizar los cruces de estudiantes de Guatemala a Belize. La reunión también sirvió como plataforma para continuar la campaña de información sobre el referéndum de Belize y Guatemala. La Unión Europea hace una contribución financiera generosa al fondo de Belize-Guatemala del Fondo de Paz de la OEAJulio de 2017
Canadá brinda apoyo operacional y de programación a la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia Canadá brinda apoyo operacional y de programación a la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia para contribuir a una solución pacífica y permanente a la disputa territorial entre Belize y Guatemala. La contribución de Canadá se destinará a la construcción de confianza y la resolución de conflictos, así como a los esfuerzos para fomentar las relaciones positivas entre comunidades. Como parte de este proyecto, la Oficina realizará un monitoreo continuo de la zona para detectar puntos de conflicto e incidentes, así como para llevar a cabo investigaciones y verificaciones si así lo solicitan los gobiernos de Guatemala y Belize. También proporcionará capacitación en resolución de conflictos y consolidación de la paz. Reunión trimestral de los ejércitos24 de mayo de 2017Hotel San Ignacio, San Ignacio, Distrito de Cayo, Belize  El 24 de mayo de 2017, se realizó una reunión de comandantes operativos de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize (BDF) y el Ejército de Guatemala con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA en San Ignacio, Distrito de Cayo, Belize. Estas reuniones se llevan a cabo cada tres meses bajo la coordinación del Fondo de Paz de la OEA para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia, analizar las actividades recientes y programar las patrullas de enlace para los próximos tres meses. Reunión de Comandantes del Batallón Belize-Guatemala17 de mayo de 2017The Lodge at Chaa Creek Cottages, Belize  OEl 17 de mayo, los Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y el Ejército de Guatemala se reunieron con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA en The Lodge at Chaa Creek Cottages, Belize, para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. Reunión de la Agencia de la Zona de Adyacencia2 de mayo de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 2 de mayo, el Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores se reunió con las Agencias de Zona de Adyacencia de Belize para discutir asuntos que afectan a ambas comunidades, como cuestiones de seguridad, licencias de licor a establecimientos en la zona y logística de cruce de estudiantes con el apoyo y la participación de la Oficina de la OEA / AZ en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala Conferencia con el Ejército de Guatemala27 de abril de 2017Santa Elena, Petén, Guatemala  El 27 de abril de 2017, los oficiales de verificación de la Oficina OEA hicieron una presentación sobre el papel de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala, así como sobre las medidas de fomento de la confianza vigentes para los miembros del Ejército de Guatemala desplegados en Santa Elena, Petén, Guatemala. Reunión de Comandantes del Batallón Belize-Guatemala26 de abril de 2017La Polvora, Petén, Guatemala  El 26 de abril de 2017, Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y del Ejército de Guatemala se reunieron con el apoyo de la OEA en La Polvora, Melchor de Mencos, Petén, República de Guatemala, para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. Delegación de la Unión Europea visita la AZ25 de abril de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 25 de abril de 2017, una delegación de la Unión Europea visitó la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala para observar de primera mano el trabajo que se realiza en el marco de las medidas de fomento de la confianza vigentes. La delegación estuvo encabezada por Su Excelencia Stefano Gatto, Embajador de la UE en Guatemala, Su Excelencia Malgorzatta Wasilewska, Embajador de la UE acreditado en Belize y Sr. Fernando Pons Subdirector de la División para el Caribe, América Central y México del Servicio Europeo de Acción Exterior (SEAE) . La visita incluyó reuniones con los alcaldes locales de Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala y Benque Viejo, Belize, así como una presentación de la cultura de paz en la comunidad de El Arenal. La Unión Europea es el principal contribuyente al fondo de Belize-Guatemala del Fondo de Paz de la OEA. Durante la visita, se firmó un acuerdo simbólico para continuar apoyando el proyecto titulado "Implementación de las Medidas de Fomento de la Confianza en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala", administrado por el Fondo de Paz de la OEA. También estuvieron presentes en la ceremonia Su Excelencia. El Embajador Patrick Andrews, Representante Permanente de Belize ante la OEA; ÉL. Gabriel Aguilera, Representante Permanente de Guatemala ante la OEA; ÉL. Estuardo Roldan, Embajador de Guatemala en Belize y H.E. Alexis Rosado, Embajador de Belize en Guatemala. Prevención de incendios forestales7 de abril de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 7 de abril de 2017, el Alcalde de Melchor de Mencos, las Asociaciones de Concesiones Forestales locales de Melchor de Mencos en Guatemala, los Departamentos Forestales, Departamentos de Bomberos, Departamentos de Policía, Departamentos Ambientales de Belize y Guatemala, representantes Menonitas de Spanish Lookout, Belize así como el Alcalde de Benque Viejo se reunieron para discutir medidas de prevención de incendios forestales para evitar bajas a lo largo de la Zona de Adyacencia Belize-Guatemala, con el apoyo y la participación de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia Belize-Guatemala. Grupo de trabajo de la Comisión Conjuntan5 de abril de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores se reunió con las Agencias de la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize y Guatemala para discutir asuntos que afectan a ambas comunidades, tales como seguridad, licencias de licor de establecimientos en la zona y logística de cruce de estudiantes con el apoyo y la participación de la Oficina de la OEA / AZ en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. Presentación a la comunidad diplomática3 de abril de 2017Ciudad de Belmopan, Belize  El 3 de abril de 2017, el Representante Especial del Secretario General de la OEA hizo una presentación sobre el papel de la OEA en la disputa Belize-Guatemala y discutió las diferentes actividades llevadas a cabo por la Oficina de la OEA en Belize y Guatemala AZ con la comunidad diplomática en el extranjero y el Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores? en Belmopan, Belize. (SE Harald Peter Klein, Embajador de Alemania, SE Georg Andren, Embajador de Suecia, SE Eduardo José A. De Vega, Embajador de Filipinas, SE Ahmed Hatem Barghash Almenhali, Embajador de los Emiratos Árabes Unidos y SE Mohammad Taghi Hosseini, Embajador de Corrí). Misa por la paz1 de abril de 2017Jalacte, Distrito de Toledo, Belize  El 1 de abril de 2017, los arzobispos católicos de Belize y Guatemala celebraron una misa por la paz en Jalacte, distrito de Toledo, Belize, con la presencia de autoridades y ciudadanos beliceños y guatemaltecos, con una asistencia de aproximadamente 600 personas; este evento se llevó a cabo con el apoyo y la participación de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. Reunión del municipio de Melchor31 de marzo de 2017Melchor de Mencos  La Comisión Melchor de Mencos para el Desarrollo de la Ciudad se reunió para revisar los avances realizados en el Plan de Acción 2017 con la participación y el apoyo de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. Reunión mensual de los Comandantes del Batallón del Ejército de Guatemala y la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize29 de marzo de 2017Central Farm, Distrito de Cayo, Belize  El 29 de marzo, los Comandantes del Batallón de la Fuerza de Defensa de Belize y el Ejército de Guatemala se reunieron con la participación y el apoyo de la OEA en Central Farm, Distrito de Cayo, Belize para intercambiar información sobre la situación de seguridad en la Zona de Adyacencia. Plan de prevención de incendios forestales29 de marzo de 2017Oficina OEA / AZ  El 29 de marzo, el Alcalde de Melchor de Mencos convocó una reunión con las Asociaciones de Concesiones Forestales locales de Melchor de Mencos en Guatemala, los Departamentos Forestales, Departamentos de Bomberos, Departamentos de Policía, Departamentos Ambientales de Belize y Guatemala, así como con el Alcalde de Benque Viejo para discutir medidas de prevención de incendios forestales a lo largo de la Línea de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala, con el apoyo y la participación de la Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. Grupo de trabajo de la Comisión Conjunta28 de marzo de 2017Oficina OEA / ZA  El 28 de marzo, el Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Belize mantuvo una reunión interna con las Agencias del Gobierno de la Zona de Adyacencia para debatir asuntos relacionados con el cruce de estudiantes, la seguridad y las nuevas construcciones en la zona de adyacencia administrada por Belize con el apoyo y la participación del Oficina de la OEA en la Zona de Adyacencia de Belize-Guatemala. Secretary General Luis Almagro visit to Guatemala and BelizeMarch 15-16, 2017Guatemala and Belize  From March 15-16, OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, visited Guatemala and Belize and met with the respective Foreign Ministers, His Excellency Carlos Raúl Morales and the Honorable Wilfred Elrington. During his visit, Secretary Almagro visited some of the communities in the Adjacency Zone and flew over the national parks to get a better understanding of the situation on the ground.  In Belize, Mr. Almagro also met with the leader of the PUP Opposition Party, the Honorable John Briceño, and his Advisory Team. Spain provides financial support in order to support the activities of the OAS in the Adjacency ZoneFebruary, 2017
German Military Attaché Visits the OAS/AZ OfficeJanuary 30, 2017OAS/AZ OFFICE  On January 30, the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone received a visit from from Dr. York Lohse, Naval Commander – Military Attaché at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Mexico with the purpose of learning about the responsabilities and activities advanced by the OAS in the Adjacency Zone. Visit of Canadian Political Officer to the OAS/AZ OfficeJanuary 26, 2017OAS/AZ Office  On January 26, the OAS/AZ Office received a visit from Ms. Karolina Guay, Political Officer at the Embassy of Canada in Guatemala and Belize. OAS/AZ Office briefs the diplomatic communityJanuary 23, 2017Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Belmopan City, Belize  On January 23, the OAS/ AZ Office Interim Director, Mr. Juan Carlos Sagastume, made a presentation of the activities carried out by the AZ Office to ambassadors concurrent in Belize: H. E. Jonathan Peled from Israel, H. E. Merethe Nergaard from Norway, H. E. Alena Gazurova from the Slovak Republic and H. E. Luigi Maccotta from Italy. Joint Commission Working Group meets at OAS/AZ Office to discuss Movement of StudentsJanuary 18, 2017OAS/AZ Office  On January 18, a Belize and Guatemala Joint Commission Working Group met at the OAS/AZ Office to discuss the implementation of the agreement on the “Movement of Students.” The Working Group specifically focused on the legal aspects pertaining to the students passes that are being issued to Guatemalan children studying in Belize. Environmental NGOs of Belize and Guatemala address challenges in the AZJanuary 12, 2017OAS/AZ Office  The director of the Belize NGO Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD), Rafael Manzanero, met on January 12 with his Guatemalan counterpart, Byron Castellanos at the OAS/AZ Office to discuss environmental issues, as well as to contract a Community Outreach Educator that will work in the communities of southern Petén, Guatemala. The Netherlands makes financial contribution to the Peace Fund for activities in the Belize and Guatemala AZ OAS OfficeDecember, 2016
Visit of Ms. Joanne Crabtree, Belize Desk Officer in the UK to the OAS/AZ OfficeNovember 24, 2016OAS/AZ Office  Presentation of the different activities carried out by the OAS office in the Adjacency Zone between Belize and Guatemala. Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesNovember 23, 2016El Remate, Flores, Petén, Guatemala  On November 23, a meeting of operational commanders of the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS in El Remate, Flores, Petén, Guatemala. These meetings are held every three months under the coordination of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the security situation in the Adjacency Zone, discuss recent activities and schedule the link up patrols for the next three months. Bilateral Working Group on the Movement of StudentsNovember 23, 2016OAS/AZ Office  Follow up meeting on the Agreement Between Belize and Guatemala On The Movement Of Students Through Terrestrial Ports Of Entry, which was signed in Placencia, Belize in December 2014 Agreement English | Español Ambassador of The United Kingdom to Guatemala visits the OAS/AZ OfficeNovember 21, 2016OAS/AZ Office  On November 21, 2016, the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone received a high level visit from the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Guatemala., H. E. Mr. Thomas Carter. The OAS Secretary General Special Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs, Magdalena Talamas, welcomed the ambassador and briefed him on the latest developments in the mediation process. Monthly meeting of Belize Defence Force and Guatemala Army Battalion Commanders MeetingNovember 16, 2016Placencia Village, Stann Creek District, Belize  On November 16, Battalion Commanders of the Belize Defense Force and the Guatemala Army met with the participation and support of the OAS in Placencia Village, Stann Creek District, Belize to exchange information on the security situation in the Adjacency Zone. Ambassador of the European Union visits the OAS/AZ OfficeNovember 11, 2016OAS/AZ Office  On November 11, the European Union Ambassador H. E. Ms. Malgorzata Wasilewska, the new Head of Delegation based in Kingston, Jamaica, visited the OAS/AZ Office. Ambassador Wasilewska was briefed by the OAS/AZ staff about the ongoing activities in the Adjacency Zone funded by the EU. Joint Commission Working Group meets at OAS/AZ Office to discuss Movement of StudentsNovember 04, 2016OAS/AZ Office  On November 04, a Belize and Guatemala Joint Commission Working Group met at the OAS/AZ Office to follow up on the “Agreement on The Movement Of Students Through Terrestrial Ports Of Entry”, which was signed in Placencia, Belize, in December 2014. Belize makes financial contribution to the Belize-Guatemala subfund of the OAS Peace FundOctober, 2016
US South Command meets with Belize Defense ForceSeptember 30, 2016Belize  Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd, the Commander of United States Southern Command concluded a two-day visit to Belize with a meeting held with Commander Belize Defense Force, Brigadier General David Jones and Chief of Defense Staff of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, Major General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez. Korea makes financial contribution to the Belize-Guatemala subfund of the OAS Peace FundSeptember, 2016
Press conference Julio Rene Alvarado's caseAugust 26, 2016Belize Press conference Julio Rene Alvarado's caseAugust 25, 2016Guatemala Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesAugust 25, 2016Belize   On December 2, 2016 an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS in the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the security situation in the Adjacency Zone, discuss recent activities and schedule the link up patrols for the next three months. Meeting of the Group of Friends of Belize and GuatemalaAugust 23, 2016OAS Headquarters, Washington, D.C.  On August 23, OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, together with his Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs, met with members of the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala, as well as other representatives of the international community at the OAS Headquarters, in Washington, D.C. OAS delivers supplies to the Alvarado familyJuly 21, 2016Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone  On July 21, the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone delivered food to the family of the deceased minor, Julio Rene Alvarado, as the investigation into the fatal incident moves forward. At OAS, Belize and Guatemala Begin Negotiations to Cooperate in the Sarstoon RiverJune 22, 2016OAS Headquarters, Washington, DC  The General Secretariat of the OAS is pleased to inform that good progress was made during the meeting headed by the Secretary General and the respective Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala, at the headquarters of the OAS, which concentrated on the development of best practices for the de-escalation of tensions in the Sarstoon River. English | Español The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala meet with Special Representative of the OAS Secretary General for Belize-Guatemala AffairsMay 25, 2016Istanbul, Turkey  Turkey supports OAS work in Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone with $200,000, showing commitment to find a cooperation mechanism for Sartsoon River differendumMay 24, 2016Turkey   On May 24, the Government of Turkey announced a contribution of US$ 220.000 to the OAS Peace Fund/Belize-Guatemala Subfund following a fruitful meeting between the Foreign Ministers of Turkey, Belize and Guatemala, and the OAS SG Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs. Turkey reiterated its commitment to find a cooperation mechanism for Sartsoon River differendum and renewed its support for the confidence-building measures in place in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. At OAS, Belize and Guatemala Begin Negotiations to Cooperate in the Sarstoon RiverMay 4, 2016OAS Headquarters, Washington, DC  The Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, met today with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala in reference to the recent incidents in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone and the Sarstoon River. English | Español Turkey supports OAS Peace Fund work in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency ZoneMay, 2016
OAS Secretary General Visits BelizeApril 19-21, 2016Belmopan, Belize  On April 19, OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, traveled to Belize on an official visit invited by the government of Prime Minister Dean Barrow accompanied by Dr. Francisco Guerrero, Secretary for the Strengthening of Democracy. Almagro first met with Prime Minister Barrow and discussed how the OAS can continue to support the efforts of the Belizean government in promoting cooperation and development in the country before addressing the current status of the Belize-Guatemala process, as well as next steps directed at finding a peaceful and permanent solution to the centuries-old territorial dispute between these two sister nations.  Following this meeting, Secretary Almagro met with Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington. The government of Belize offered a welcome cocktail in honor of the OAS Secretary General that same evening where he publicly announced the appointment of his new Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs.  The following day, Almagro visited the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone where the children of the culture of peace program presented live performances showcasing the work achieved within the framework of the music and art workshops. This was the first time that an OAS Secretary General visited the Adjacency Zone. The Governor General of Belize, Sir Colville Young, was also present during the culture of peace ceremony. Later that day, Secretary Almagro met with the staff of the OAS-AZ Office and was briefed about the current and future challenges of this civilian peace-keeping mission. Almagro´s meetings included a luncheon with government authorities, the Leader of the Opposition, as well as with the Ambassadors of the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Canada. As part of the visit, the Belizean government organized a tour of the Mayan archaeological site Xunantunich which is located very close to the Adjacency Line.  On the morning of April 21st, OAS Secretary General met with the leader of the PUP Opposition, the Honorable Johnny Briceño, as well as with the newly created Advisory Committee on Belize-Guatemala Affairs comprised of all former PUP authorities, including former Prime Minister Said Musa, and former Ministers of Foreign Affairs Lisa Shoman, Eamon Courtenay and Godfrey Smith.  He held a brief press conference at the airport before departing.  The OAS Secretary General appoints a new Representative for Belize-Guatemala AffairsApril 20, 2016OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone  On April 20, during his first visit to the Organization of American States Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone, Secretary General Luis Almagro appointed Magdalena Talamas as his new Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs. Ms. Talamas is responsible for facilitating the ongoing political-diplomatic negotiations between the governments of Belize and Guatemala directed at finding a peaceful and permanent solution to their longstanding differendum, as well as for overseeing the operations of the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone --the only OAS civilian peace-keeping mission in the field deployed to ease inter-state tensions. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala meet at the OAS Adjacency Zone OfficeApril 8, 2016 On Friday, April 8, 2016, the Honorable Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belize and His Excellency Carlos Raul Morales, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala met at the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone to discuss the situation in the Sarstoon River as well as other pending bilateral issues. The Ministers were accompanied by their respective army Commanders, General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez of Guatemala and General David Jones of the Belize Defense Force, as well as by their bilateral Ambassadors: His Excellency Alexis Rosado of Belize and His Excellency Estuardo Roldan of Guatemala who head the Joint Commission. The OAS was represented by the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Ms. Magdalena Talamas. The Government of Belize pays Tribute to Ambassador Raul LagoMarch 23, 2016Belmopan, Belize  During a farewell ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize on March 23, 2016, attended by high- ranking government officials and diplomats, Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington paid tribute to the outgoing OAS Secretary General's Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs and highlighted his distinguished career as a diplomat and mediator of the dispute. Minister Elrington further stressed Ambassador Lago's invaluable contributions to the process and thanked him on behalf of the government and people of Belize for having served with distinction, objectivity and the utmost professionalism and efficiency. Meeting of the Group of Friends of Belize and GuatemalaMarch 15, 2016OAS Headquarters, Washington, D.C.  The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala, the Honorable Wilfred Elrington and His Excellency Carlos Raul Morales, together with the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Ms. Magdalena Talamas, addressed the members of the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala, as well as other representatives of the international community and made an impassioned plea to the pool of donors to help maintain the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, which is the only civilian peace-keeping mission deployed in the Hemisphere within the context of a territorial dispute. The Parties spoke about the crucial role that the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone plays to maintain peace on the ground, ease tensions and thus facilitate the ongoing political dialogue. Meeting of Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala with OAS Secretary GeneralMarch 15, 2016OAS Headquarters, Washington, D.C.  The Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala met with OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro to reaffirm their commitment to submit Guatemala’s territorial, insular and maritime claim to the International Court of Justice for final settlement. The ministers also addressed the need to avoid incidents and tensions between the two countries, as well as to continue to strengthen the bilateral relationship. Both Foreign Ministers also called on a joint effort to raise funds for the maintenance of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, which functions as a civilian peace-keeping mission on the ground since 2003. Technical Meetings of the Belize-Guatemala Joint CommissionFebrurary 25, 2016OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone  On February 25, 2016, more than eighty delegates from Belize and Guatemala gathered at the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone to examine three of the thirteen bilateral agreements adopted in Placencia, Belize in 2014. The delegates first gathered at a plenary session, which later broke out into three working groups. Specifically, the working groups examined the “Agreement on the Harmonization of Operating Hours at Legal Entry Points;” “the Agreement for Sustainable Tourism” and the “Agreement for the Protection of the Environment.” All three working groups identified priority areas of collaboration, deadlines to meet the objectives set and a schedule of activities and follow-up meetings. The results of the working group exchanges and decisions were shared with all the delegates at the final plenary session.  The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala meet at the OAS/AZ OfficeJanuary 22, 2016 The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala along with the Special Representative of the OAS Secretary General met at the Office of the Organization of American States (OAS) in the Adjacency Zone (AZ) on Friday, January 22, 2016 to discuss the status of the bilateral agenda and reactivate the Belize – Guatemala Joint Commission as established under the Framework Agreement on Confidence Building Measures of 2005. They also tasked the Joint Commission to ensure the prompt implementation of the cooperation agreements that were signed in Placencia, Belize in December 2014, as well as to develop a work plan for future initiatives aimed at promoting confidence and good neighborliness between the two countries. Visit of UK to OAS/AZ OfficeJanuary 20, 2016 On January 20, 2016, the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone received a high level visit from representatives of the United Kingdom. The delegation included His Excellency Peter Hughes, High Commissioner to Belize; His Excellency Tom Carter, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Guatemala; and Mr. Jonathan Williams, Head of Section for Central America and Mexico at the Foreign Office in London. San Marcos Community Development ProjectDecember 29, 2015Dolores, Guatemala  On December 29, the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency handed over silos to the members of the San Marcos Community during the second phase of the technical development project which the Office is executing with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture of Guatemala. Photo Gallery Chambers of Commerce of Belize and Guatemala sign cooperation Agreement to further strengthen tiesDecember 9, 2015Guatemala City  Cooperation Agreement between the Chambers of Commerce of Belize and Guatemala, December 9, 2015 English Español The Chief of the OAS Peace Fund was recognized by the outgoing government of Guatemala for the invaluable work of the Office in the Belize and Guatemala Adjacency ZoneDecember 3, 2015Guatemala City  Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesDecember 2, 2015Belize On December 2, 2015 an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS in the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the security situation in the Adjacency Zone, discuss recent activities and schedule the link up patrols for the next three months.  Cooperation projectDecember 2015San Marcos community The OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency launches the technical cooperation project in the San Marcos community December, 2015.  Photo Gallery Culture of Peace programNovember, 2015Jalacte, Belize and Santa Cruz, Guatemala The OAS/AZ culture of peace program expands to include the communities of Jalacte, Belize and Santa Cruz, Guatemala November 2015.  Inauguration of the Culture of Peace ProgramOctober 20, 2015Jalacté, Belize/Santa Cruz-Guatemala The culture of peace program has grown significantly and now boasts more than 2000 registered students and has recently expanded to the Jalacte, Belize and Santa Cruz, Guatemala communities where local children paint and sing in their native q'uechi language. On this occasion, the children from the Jalacte and Santa Cruz communities illustrated these efforts by coming together to give a beautiful performance as part of the program.  Annual Briefing by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belize to the Diplomatic CommunitySeptember 18, 2015Belize City, Belize On September 18, 2015, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belize, Honorable Wilfred Elrington, addressed the diplomatic community gathered in Belize City to participate in the events scheduled to celebrate Belize's independence. On this occasion Minister Elrington presented the most recent activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and expressed the government's gratitude for the staunch support it has received from so many countries around the world. Minister Elrington also expressly thanked the Organization of American States for its efforts in helping Belize and Guatemala find a peaceful and permanent solution to the territorial dispute.   OAS Delegation Meets with EU AmbassadorsSeptember 18, 2015Belize City, Belize Within the framework of the events organized by the government of Belize to celebrate its independence, the Organization of American States met with the European Union Ambassadors accredited to the government of Belize to discuss the status of the process, as well as to provide updated information on the activities carried out by the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone.  Quarterly Meeting of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, the Belize Defense Force and the OASAugust 25, 2015OAS/AZ Office On August 25, 2015 an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS in the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the security situation in the Adjacency Zone, discuss recent activities and schedule the link up patrols for the next three months.  Observation/Peacekeeping Mission in the Sarstoon RiverAugust 16, 2015At the request of the Governments of Belize and Guatemala, a special OAS observation/civilian peacekeeping mission was deployed to the Sarstoon River on August 16, 2015.  Belize and Guatemala Celebrate Week of PeaceJuly 27-29, 2015Belize City, Belize From July 27-29, 2015, the OAS Peace Fund together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize organized a series of events to inform about the Belize-Guatemala process and the role of the OAS in mediating the centuries old territorial differendum between these two sister nations. The activities included various encounters with the local media; a high-level meeting with the resident Ambassadors accredited to the Government of Belize who are members of the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala; a public forum attended by more than 400 people which was transmitted live via television, radio and the Internet; and several presentations by the children of the culture of peace project advanced by the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone. The Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala and the OAS host a press conference with Belizean mediaOn July 27, the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala together with the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund hosted a press conference with the Belizean media to inform about and respond to questions regarding recent developments in the Belize-Guatemala relations and on the work of the OAS in the process. OAS Peace Fund Invited to Belizean TV Morning ShowsOAS Officials invited to discuss the role of the OAS in mediating the Belize-Guatemala dispute at popular Belizean TV programs: Channel 5’s “Open Your Eyes” and Love FM “The Morning Show” On the popular national Belizean TV Show "Open your Eyes" set, discussing the Role of the OAS AZ Office and Confidence Building Measures  Love FM & TV station in Belize - a conversation about the OAS Peace Process and the Culture of Peace Program in the AZ Meeting of the Group of Friends of Belize and GuatemalaIn the afternoon of July 27, the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala and OAS Officials met with the members of the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala. The Group of Friends acts as an advisory body to the Secretary General and provides political and operational support for undertaking the various activities contemplated under the agreement on confidence-building measures in force.On this occasion, the Foreign Ministers discussed the next steps of the process to submit the dispute to the International Court of Justice for final settlement. The OAS informed the Group of Friends of the activities implemented by the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, and a discussion of future activities aimed at implementing confidence building measures between the two countries. Likewise, the OAS presented advances in the Belize-Guatemala process, as well as the challenges that lie ahead as advances are made towards a peaceful, permanent and honorable solution to the territorial differendum.   Agenda Download OAS Peace Fund Promotes Arts among Belizean and Guatemalan ChildrenThe Culture of Peace Program is run by the OAS AZ Office to foster community to community contacts across the adjacency line. It is geared specifically at children and youths from communities on both sides of the line. The program runs from March to December on an annual basis and currently benefits the communities of El Arenal, Benque Viejo and Jalacte in Belize and the communties of El Arenal, Melchor de Mencos and Santa Cruz in Guatemala. The program offers workshops in arts, crafts, music and language. On this occasion the children of the culture of peace program were given the opportunity to showcase the results of their hard work by offering both a musical presentation as well as an art exhibit where they displayed their colorful works.   There are an estimated one hundred and twenty five art pieces on display at the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts.   Forum on the Role of the OAS in Mediating the Belize Guatemala DisputeOn July 28, at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts, in Belize City, the OAS held a public forum titled “Belize-Guatemala and the OAS Working Together to build a Culture of Peace”. The Forum highlighted the role of the OAS/AZ and showcased the numerous activities it advances for the direct benefit of the peoples of Belize and Guatemala. Furthermore, the purpose of the event was also to sensitize the Belizean public about the confidence-building measures in place between the governments of Belize and Guatemala; and provide updated information on the status of the process in preparation for the referendum to submit Guatemala’s claim to the International Court of Justice.Video/Message from the OAS SG The Forum consisted of a two-hour event made for television that included presentations from the GS/OAS on the work of the OAS/AZ, on the Culture of Peace Program; comments from the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala; and music presentations by the children of the community at the end of the session. Program Download Presentation by the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund on the Role of the OAS, and remarks by the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Belize-Guatemala Affairs: The Foreign Ministers of both countries were also guest speakers at the session, and they took the opportunity to reiterate that friendly relations continue: After the Foreign Ministers of both countries spoke at the forum, the children of both communities closed the event by singing “Give Me Your Hands”. Diplomats of Belize, Guatemala and the O.A.S. were taken up to the stage by the children and they all sang together while waving the Culture of Peace flags.    Children’s breakfast promotes peace between Belize and GuatemalaOn July 29th, The Belize City Council, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the OAS Peace Fund hosted children from Belize and Guatemala at BTL Park in Belize City at a breakfast intended to celebrate the youngest citizens of both countries and promote peace and harmony. Secretary General Luis Almagro reaffirms his commitment to Belize-Guatemala ProcessMay 28, 2015Guatemala City   Two days after taking office as the new Secretary General of the OAS, Luis Almagro Lemes visited Guatemala City to reaffirm the Organization’s commitment to continue supporting Belize and Guatemala as they move ahead with their efforts to arrive at a final and definitive settlement to the dispute that exists between the two neighboring countries. During this visit, Secretary Almagro met with both Foreign Ministers, as well as with the international community to express his deep satisfaction for the progress achieved to date under the auspices of the OAS. Secretary Almagro took advantage of the opportunity to announce that he will be traveling to Belize in a short timeframe to meet with the Belizean authorities, and that he is also looking forward to visiting the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone. Press Release English Español Belize and Guatemala sign Protocol to Special AgreementMay 25, 2015Guatemala City  On May 25, 2015, the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala, Wilfred Elrington and Carlos Raúl Morales, signed a Protocol to the 2008 Special Agreement, which will allow the governments of both countries to separately hold national referenda with a view to submitting their territorial dispute to the International Court of Justice for final settlement. Secretary General José Miguel Insulza participated as a witness of honor in the ceremony that also included members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, NGOs, representatives of other international organizations and local and international media. Protocol to Amend the Special Agreement, May 25, 2015 English Español Press Release English Español VII Summit of the AmericasApril 10-11, 2015Panama City, Panama  The Heads of State and Government of the thirty five countries of the Hemisphere gathered at the VII Summit of the Americas in Panama City, Panama from April 10-11, 2015 to discuss a myriad of political, economic and social issues on the inter-American agenda. In his inaugural speech, the Secretary General specifically mentioned the progress achieved in the Belize-Guatemala negotiations as a clear indicator that dialogue is the best way to resolve differences. Likewise, President Otto Pérez Molina of Guatemala stated that the advances in the Belize-Guatemala negotiations during Secretary Insulza´s administration allow us to finally envision a prompt and satisfactory solution to the dispute at the International Court of Justice. Speech of the President of Guatemala at the VII Summit of the Americas in Panama City, Panama on April 11, 2015 Español Speech of Jose Miguel Insulza, Secretary General of the OAS opening ceremony of the VII Summit of the Americas in Panama City, Panama on April 11, 2015 English | Español The European Union announced their pledge of 1.4 million euros to the Belize Guatemala Subfund of the OAS Peace Fund.March, 2015 The European Union announced their pledge of 1.4 million euros to the Belize Guatemala Subfund of the OAS Peace Fund. This generous contribution is being used to fund the operations of the OAS/AZ Office and is critical for the continued execution of confidence-building measures in the Belize Guatemala Adjacency Zone. Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesFebruary 25, 2015Belize  On February 25, 2015 an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS/AZ Mission in the District of Toledo, Belize. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the situation in the Adjacency Zone and to inform about the most recent activities and patrols carried out by the respective armies in the area.    Historic Step taken in Belize-Guatemala ProcessDecember 17, 2014 On December 17th 2014, the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, and the President of Guatemala, Otto Perez Molina, signed thirteen bilateral agreements in key action areas[1], which constituted not only an unprecedented step in the process but a historic accomplishment; so much so that the government of Belize honored the OAS Secretary General with the most prestigious award bestowed upon a civilian foreigner: the Order of Distinction of Belize, in recognition of his diplomatic efforts and support in the advancement of the negotiation process between Belize and Guatemala. The importance of this landmark moment was augmented by the fact that both the signing and decoration took place within the framework of the SICA Summit and was witnessed by all the participating Central American Presidents and Heads of State. Likewise, in a parallel negotiation process, the security and armed forces of Belize and Guatemala adopted, under the auspices of the OAS, three highly significant agreements in strategic areas such as military to military cooperation; intelligence exchange; and joint police task forces, with a view to expanding and strengthening cooperation mechanisms, including coordinated operations among these security agencies to combat illegal activities and organized transnational crime. Following a year of intense negotiations and frequent high-level exchanges between Belizean and Guatemalan authorities and counterparts, which included the participation of influential parliamentarians and political actors representing both government and opposition parties, a consensus was finally reached to disengage the issue of the territorial dispute from the urgent need to consolidate the bilateral relationship for the sake of regional integration and cooperation. This breakthrough, inspired and led by the chairs of the Joint Commission, Foreign Minister Carlos Raul Morales of Guatemala and Alexis Rosado, Belizean Ambassador in Guatemala, paved the way for a successful conclusion of the Road Map’s Plan of Action, which had been promoted by the OAS following the impasse that had resulted from the suspension of the simultaneous referenda in October 2013. The Belize-Guatemala Road Map called for the strengthening of the bilateral relationship to create a climate of confidence conducive to the fixing of a new date for holding the simultaneous referenda to lead to International Court of Justice in accordance with the Special Agreement. In view of the successful outcome of the Plan of Action, there is no doubt that this foremost objective has been accomplished: the bilateral relationship between Belize and Guatemala has never been stronger.   [1] “Harmonization of Operating Hours at Legal Terrestrial Entry Points”; “Protection, Conservation, Recovery and Return of Items of Cultural and Natural Patrimony which Have Been Stolen, Pilfered, Looted, Exported, Imported or Trafficked Unlawfully”; “Mutual Recognition of Driver’s Licenses”; “Equivalency of Studies and the Recognition of Educational Documents”; “Electric Power Trade, Transmission Interconnection and Grid Connectivity”; “Protection of the Environment and the Sustainable Use of Resources”; “Expedited Deportation”; “Movement of Students Through Terrestrial Points of Entry”; “Serving of Penal Sentences”; “Program for Seasonal Workers”; “Recovery and Return of Vehicles Stolen, Confiscated or Impounded Illegally or Inappropriately”; “Facilitate the Issuance of Student Visas”; “Sustainable Tourism”. Congressional Guatemalan Delegation visits BelizeDecember 10-12, 2014Hattieville, Belize From December 10-12, 2014, four Guatemalan parliamentarians, together with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, visited a group of Guatemalan prisoners in the Hattieville prison in Belize City. The visit was carried out within the framework of the Road Map Agreement adopted on January 24, 2014, which called for the strengthening of the bilateral relationship through a series of exchanges conducive to deepening the ties of friendship and mutual understanding. The visit also included a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belize, the Honorable Wilfred Elrington, and his Deputy, Ambassador Alexis Rosado. The delegations continued their informal discussions in San Pedro, Belize under the auspices of the OAS. Technical Meeting of the Joint CommissionWashington, D.C.December 8-9, 2014 The European Union becomes a member of the Group of Friends of Belize and GuatemalaDecember 8, 2014In a Note dated December 8, 2014, the Permanent Observer Mission of the European Union to the Organization of American States requested membership in the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala. The Note further states that the European Union’s participation in the Group of Friends would further promote the objective for a peaceful resolution to the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute. That same day, the General Secretariat of the OAS responded favorably and expressed its great satisfaction at the decision of the European Union to join the Group of Friends at such a critical time in the process, which requires more than ever the close support of the international community. The Group of Friends serves as an advisory to provide both political and operational support for the implementation of various activities proposed in the agreement in force on Confidence-Building Measures between Belize and Guatemala. The European Union is currently the major donor to the Belize-Guatemala subfund of the OAS Peace Fund. Sweden Announces Contribution to OAS/AZ OfficeDecember 3, 2014 On December 3, 2014, the Government of Sweden announced a contribution of US$100,000 to the Belize-Guatemala Subfund of the OAS Peace Fund, as a result of the visit organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize to the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone in September 2014, where more than 60 Ambassadors accredited to the government of Belize witnessed first-hand the important work of the OAS/AZ Office and learned about the evolution of the process and the advances achieved in the past fifteen years, as a result of OAS mediation and peace-building efforts. Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesOAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency ZoneDecember 3, 2014 On December 3, 2014, an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held with the participation and support of the OAS/AZ Mission in Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo District, Belize. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the situation in the Adjacency Zone and to inform about the most recent activities and patrols carried out by the respective armies in the area. On this occasion, GPS equipment was donated to the Guatemala Army and the Belize Defense Force, pursuant to the agreement on Confidence-Building Measures which calls for the provision of specialized communications equipment to both armies by the GS/OAS. Meeting of the Joint CommissionNovember 10-16, 2014Antigua, Guatemala  Following the framework of the Road Map Agreement, a Meeting of the Joint Commission took place in Antigua, from the 10th to the 16th of November, 2014. Headed by Ambassador Alexis Rosado of Belize and Foreign Minister of Guatemala, Carlos Raúl Morale, the meetings focused on the compliance of 13 agreements to improve strong ties of friendship and cooperation between the different sectors of Belize and Guatemala, regarding questions of migration, security, education, tourism, culture, and the environment.  Photo Gallery Visit to La Rejoya Community, Flores, PetenOctober 25, 2014Guatemala  Following an incident between members of the Guatemalan La Rejoya community and the Belize Defense Force at the beginning of the month, OAS Officials were deployed to the area to de-escalate tensions. The conflict was diffused as a result of effective OAS mediation efforts. This successful outcome was followed by a high-level visit to the community led by Foreign Minister Carlos Raul Morales of Guatemala who met with the community and religious leaders. Deputy Foreign Minister Alexis Rosado of Belize also visited the area and met with members of the Belize Defense Force who were patrolling the Adjacency Zone.
Meeting with High Level Delegation of the European UnionOctober 15, 2014Guatemala City, Guatemala  The Foreign Minister of Guatemala, Carlos Raul Morales Moscoso, offered a working luncheon in honor of Mr. Roland Schafer, Director for the Americas of the European Union’s External Action Service. Also in attendance were His Excellency Alexis Rosado, Deputy Foreign Minister of Belize; Her Excellency Styliani Zervoudaki, Ambassador of the European Union in Guatemala; General Roberto Letona, Special Advisor to Minister Morales; the OAS Secretary General’s Special Representative for Belize-Guatemala Affairs, Ambassador Raul Lago and the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Magdalena Talamas. The European Union is currently the main donor of the Belize-Guatemala project. OAS Secretary General congratulates Belize and Guatemala for Agreements ReachedOctober 14, 2014Guatemala City, Guatemala In a letter addressed to the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belize and Guatemala, The Honorable Wilfred Elrington and Dr. Carlos Raúl Morales, respectively, the OAS Secretary General, José Miguel Insulza, congratulated the important steps taken by both sister nations following the signing of the agreements negotiated by the Joint Commission in the area of security. Secretary Insulza noted that “the results obtained…through the negotiation of key agreements for the first time in the bilateral relationship, constitute an unequivocal indicator of the commitment to overcoming the historical obstacle.” English | Español Meeting of Security Agencies of Belize and GuatemalaAdoption of Three Key AgreementsOctober 10, 2014 Guatemala City, Guatemala On October 10, 2014, the Belize-Guatemala Joint Commission and the OAS met at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala in compliance with Articles 17 and 20, paragraph 1, of Section D of the Agreement on a Framework for Negotiations and Confidence-Building Measures, dated September 7, 2005, as well as with the Roadmap Agreement signed on January 24, 2014, which provides for the expansion and strengthening of cooperation mechanisms, including coordinated operations among security agencies to combat illegal activities and transnational crime. Agreement English | Español Diplomatic Field Trip to the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency ZoneSeptember 20, 2014 On September 20, 2014 approximately 60 resident and non resident Ambassadors accredited to the Government of Belize visited the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone as part of the program prepared by the Government of Belize to celebrate its 33rd Independence Anniversary. The visit included remarks by His Excellency Alexis Rosado, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize; Ambassador Raul Lago, Special Representative of the Secretary General for Belize-Guatemala Affairs; and Mr. Juan Fernando Valey, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Guatemala in Belize. Magdalena Talamas, Chief of the OAS Peace Fund made a presentation on the Role of the OAS in Mediating the Belize-Guatemala Territorial Dispute and answered questions from the visitors on the current situation of the process. Following the presentation, the students of the culture of peace program advanced by the OAS/AZ showcased their work by delivering an artistic and musical performance. Photo Gallery Belize-Guatemala Video presented at Foreign Minister Elrington´s Annual Press BriefingSeptember 19, 2014Belize City, Belize  On September 19, 2014, The Honorable Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belize delivered his annual briefing to the Diplomatic Corps to inform about Belize’s foreign policy initiatives, addressing national economic, social and security issues. Specifically, Minister Elrington highlighted the celebrations scheduled to mark Belize’s 33rd year of independence and stated that the peaceful resolution of Guatemala’s claim has been and remains Belize’s foremost foreign policy priority. A video on the Belize-Guatemala process produced by the OAS was presented following Minister Elrington’s speech. Meeting of the Joint CommissionSeptember 12-13, 2014San Pedro, Belize The Joint Commission convened in San Pedro, Belize from September 12-13, 2014 to continue negotiations directed at drafting a series of bilateral agreements in key priority areas, in conformity with the Plan of Action of the Road Map Agreement adopted in January 2014. Secretary of State of Spain visits the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency ZoneSeptember 9, 2014 On September 9, 2014, His Excellency D. Jesús Gracia, Spanish Secretary of State for International Cooperation and Iberoamerican Affairs visited the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone with other high level authorities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Spain. During the visit, the delegation renewed its support to the Belize-Guatemala process and pledged additional support for the Office, as well as for the social development projects in the Adjacency Zone communities. Spain is a member of the Group of Friends of Belize and Guatemala, as well as a key partner and donor country.    Meeting of the Joint CommissionSeptember 1-4, 2014Guacamayas Reserve, Paso Caballos, Guatemala  From September 1-4, 2014, the Deputy Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala and OAS Officials gathered at the Guacamayas Biological Station in Paso Caballos Guatemala to continue negotiations directed at drafting a series of bilateral agreements in key priority areas, in conformity with the Plan of Action of the Road Map Agreement adopted in January 2014. The remote and tranquil setting of the venue facilitated a candid dialogue and exchange among the high level authorities and much progress was achieved to continue to strengthen neighborly ties of friendship and cooperation.   Technical Meetings of the Joint CommissionAugust 31, 2014Chaa, Creek, Belize  On August 31, 2014, representatives of the Joint Commission heads met at a technical level in Chaa Creek, Belize to continue to negotiate a series of bilateral agreements contemplated in the Plan of Action of the Road Map Agreement adopted by the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala on January 24, 2014. The purpose of these agreements is strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation between the governments and peoples of Belize and Guatemala, as well as to create a climate of confidence conducive to the fixing of a date for holding the necessary referenda to lead to the International Court of Justice, in accordance with Article 1 of the Special Agreement. Quarterly Meeting of the ArmiesAugust 27, 2014Guatemala  On August 27, 2014 an operational coordination meeting between the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Guatemalan Army was held in Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo District, Belize with the participation and support of the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. These meetings are held every three months under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund to exchange information on the situation in the Adjacency Zone and to inform about the most recent activities and patrols carried out by the respective armies in the area.   Turkey announces contribution to Belize-Guatemala ProcessAugust 19, 2014 The Government of Turkey announced a contribution of US$100,000 to the OAS Peace Fund/Belize-Guatemala Subfund following a fruitful meeting between the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala and OAS Officials within the framework of the OAS General Assembly in June where Turkey reiterated its commitment to supporting peace efforts worldwide and renewed its support for the confidence-building measures in place in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. Visit to the San Marcos CommunityAugust 11-14, 2014San Marcos, Guatemala  From August 11-14, 2014, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Guatemala, Carlos Raul Morales, accompanied by OAS Officials visited the San Marcos Community, located to the West of the Adjacency Line. The visit included exchanges with community and religious leaders, as well as with other local representatives. The delegation explored the possibility of executing a technical cooperation project in the community to help improve the economies of the resident families.  Guatemalan Congressional Delegation Visits Adjacency ZoneJuly 10-11, 2014The Plan of Action of the Road Map agreement called for the promotion of activities directed at strengthening the bilateral relationship between Belize and Guatemala. In that spirit, from July 10-11, 2014, a group of Guatemalan parliamentarians visited Belize where they met with high level officials to exchange information and discuss possible areas of joint collaboration, including cultural projects in view of the Mayan heritage that both countries share. The delegation also visited the Monte de los Olivos community in Guatemala, which is located very close to the Adjacency Zone. Adoption of Resolution AG/CG/doc. (XLIV-O/14)5 >> REV. 1
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Beyond Rio+20: Implementing Green Economies and the Outlook for Sustainable Development in the Americas Americas Project 2012  Learn more about Americas Project Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada visit to OAS Adjacency Zone OfficeOctober 13, 2012  The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), completed her official visit to Central America, visiting the Belize and Guatemala Adjacency Zone. The Minister was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alexis Rosado, Guatemala’s Vice-Minister of External Relations, Carlos Raúl Morales, and the OAS Secretary General’s Special Representative for Belize and Guatemala, Ambassador Raúl Lago, the Chief of the Peace Fund, Magdalena Talamas and the Director of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, Sergio Benitez. “Our government is committed to working alongside our neighbours throughout the region to improve safety and security for the people who call the Americas home,” said Minister Ablonczy. “Canada is pleased that Guatemala and Belize are working closely together to resolve the issue of the Adjacency Zone between their two countries. We are confident that a resolution will improve the stability and security of both nations and are pleased to be helping to achieve a peaceful result.” The work of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone is crucial as it contributes to reducing violence and insecurity, while improving prospects and conditions for effective conflict resolution. Canada recently announced $1 million in additional support for the Organization of American States (OAS) Office in the Adjacency Zone to help it in its work to bring Guatemala and Belize toward a permanent solution. This adds to the $445,000 Canada has contributed to the Office since 2009.
High Level Meeting between Belize and GuatemalaOAS Headquarters in Washington, DC A high-level Ministerial meeting was held at the headquarters of the OAS on July 31, 2012. The meeting was called to address a number of sensitive and pending issues that were confronting the AZ and both countries due, in part, to a series of events and incidents that had raised tensions on both sides. This Ministerial meeting helped to diffuse tensions by offering an avenue for frank discussion and dialogue at a high level. In addition, the meeting touched on the preparations for the October 6, 2013 referendum. Both parties presented on their preparatory efforts and offered plans and ideas of how to proceed with the process. Belize and Guatemala made preliminary budgetary indications and recognized that exterior financial assistance would be absolutely necessary to raise the needed funds for a successful sensitization and referendum process. In conclusion, both parties requested assistance from the OAS in preparing for the referendum and the OAS agreed to arrange for a gathering of countries—in and outside the Group of Friends—at the margins of an upcoming session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to discuss financing. Participants in this meeting included:
Promotion of a Culture of PeaceJune - December 2012 
Support for children and youth is part of the Mission’s ongoing efforts in the Belize and Guatemala Adjacency Zone geared towards the promotion and development of a culture of peace. To this end, and in coordination with the Mayors of the communities on either side of the Adjacency Line, Melchor de Menco and Benque Viejo, the OAS/AZ Office will execute a culture of peace program that will run throughout 2012. The program will consist of music (wind and string instruments), singing, painting and theater workshops and training programs for Belizean and Guatemalan students resident in the area. Visit the Photo Gallery
HRH Prince Harry of Wales visits the OAS Office in the Adjacency ZoneMarch 3, 2012 On March 3, 2012, as part of his tour of three Caribbean countries, in celebration of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, Prince Harry of Wales visited the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone to observe the culture of peace program where children of Belize and Guatemala showcased the artwork and musical skills that they have acquired through this initiative. The Ambassador of Guatemala in Belize, Manuel Tellez, the Ambassador of Belize in Guatemala, Alfredo Martinez, Jamie Lowther Pinkerton, Prince Harry’s Private Secretary, the OAS SG’s Special Representative, Ambassador Raul Lago and the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Magdalena Talamas, were present during the presentation on the work of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, which was made by the OAZ Director, Sergio Benitez. Sir David Manning, a former British diplomat, who was the British Ambassador to the United States from 2003 to 2007 also formed part of the British delegation.
The OAS delivers humanitarian aid at Monte de los Olivos, GuatemalaFebruary 11, 2012 
An OAS delegation headed by Ambassador Raul Lago, Special Representative of the Secretary General for Belize and Guatemala visited the Monte de los Olivos village on February 11, 2012 to deliver large sacks of rice, beans, oil and other basic goods to the family of a Guatemalan citizen of Kekchi origin who recently died during an incident in the Adjacency Zone. The OAS delegation, which also included the Director of the OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone, Sergio Benitez, and the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Magdalena Talamas, spoke to the widow and family of the deceased and expressed their deepest condolences and reiterated its commitment to helping the communities that inhabit the Adjacency Zone. Two representatives from the Office of the Human Rights Ombudsman of Dolores, Peten also accompanied the delegation.
Verification in Belize's Chiquibul National ParkJanuary 29, 2012 
On January 29, the Director of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, Sergio Benitez, and the Chief of the OAS Peace Fund, Magdalena Talamas, carried out a verification in Belize´s Chiquibul National Park with the accompaniment of Rafael Manzanero, Executive Director of the Belizean NGO Friends for Conservation and Development, and Derric Chan, Manager of the Park, to observe the increasing damages that the Park is suffering as a result of illegal logging and extraction of natural resources. The OAS, through its Office in the Adjacency Zone, is identifying opportunities for joint collaboration to mitigate the effects of these activities on this priceless natural reserve.
Visit of Foreign and Defense Ministers of Guatemala to the OAS Office in the Adjacency ZoneBelize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone 
Shortly after assuming their new duties, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, Harold Caballeros, together with the Minister of Defense, Ulises Anzueto, travelled to the Adjacency Zone, accompanied by the Belize Commission (COMBEL) of the Guatemalan Foreign Ministry. As part of their visit to the AZ, the delegation visited the OAS Office, where they were greeted by the Special Representative of the Secretary General, Ambassador Raul Lago. The Director of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone, Sergio Benitez, made a presentation on the work of the Mission.
PAIGH Cartographic and Geospatial Training WorkshopOAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency ZoneAugust 23-27, 2011  From August 23 to 27, an expert from the Pan American Institute of Geography and History (PAIGH) offered specialized cartographic and geospatial training, as well as on the correct use of advanced GPS equipment to the Belize Defense Forces and the Guatemalan Army. The workshop took place in the facilities of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone. 
The OAS Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone carries out various activities, of which the verifications, their follow-up and preparation of reports on any incident in the Adjacency Zone (AZ) are not only the most important regular activity but also provide the means to ensure a constant presence among the communities in the area. Their most tangible result is to detect any anomaly or conflict in its early stages, in order to respond immediately and thus prevent an escalation of the conflict that could damage relations between communities and officials, as well as between the two countries. Some verifications demand a high level of precision in terms of cartography and coordinates reading, particularly in cases where the verification sites are very close to the Adjacency Line. In these cases, the Pan American Institute of Geography and History (PAIGH) supports the efforts of the OAS/AZ Office by providing experts, training and specialized equipment to ensure the utmost accuracy of the data. Publication: OAS: Peace, Democracy and Conflict Resolution (Spanish version) Virtual Library of Inter-American Peace Iniciatives
The Peace Fund Website spans three centuries of peace-related initiatives in the Americas and includes historic documents and photographs from the very beginnings of the inter-American system. This is a unique resource to learn about the prominent role that the Organization of American States and its predecessor institutions have played in promoting regional integration and hemispheric peace. Coming soon. Corporate Social Responsibility for a Culture of PeaceBuenos Aires, ArgentinaThough apparently distinct and apart, Business and Peace share nonetheless critical linkages that must not be overlooked. It is undeniable that the vast majority of businesses require a peaceful and stable environment in order to prosper and that conflict poses extremely high risks to their operations and reputation. On the other hand, and as empirical evidence has demonstrated, businesses can also play a decisive role in promoting and strengthening peace. The cornerstone of this virtuous cycle between enterprise and peace is Corporate Social Responsibility. By pursuing ethical business practices, rooted on the principles of transparency and sound governance, environmental sustainability, social cohesion and respect for the human rights, companies can indeed be catalysts of peace. More than an investment incentive, corporate engagement in peacebuilding is a moral imperative. Recognizing the potential of the private sector to foster understanding, tolerance and peace, and the need for a more profound debate on the current status of CSR in the interamerican context, the Peace Fund of the Organization of American States in collaboration with the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development of the OAS and FOPAZ, will hold a seminar on “CSR for a Culture of Peace” in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This forum will convene prominent business leaders, senior government officials as well as civil society representatives to debate the role of CSR in promoting a culture of peace, examine the latest advances in this area and share successful experiences and best practices. Through an ambitious two-day program which addresses the various dimensions of CSR, from Gender to Sustainable Development to Youth Engagement, the OAS Peace Fund and FOPAZ intend to raise awareness on and enhance the CSR policies and initiatives in the Western Hemisphere and to decisively root business in the inter-american peace agenda. |
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Peace and Water Conference Water is the fuel of life. Yet, as it becomes scarcer and its quality deteriorates, due to heightened demand, pollution and the effects of climate change, competition over this vital resource is also increasing, leading many academics, politicians, practitioners and media to claim that future wars will be over water. The defiant nature of water, freely crossing political boundaries, raises this conflict potential and seems to back such claims. However, a more optimistic school of thought is gaining ground, asserting that history has proven water to be a greater pathway to peace than conflict between riparian nations.
In the framework of its Integrated Water Resource Management program and the Peace Fund, the OAS will hold a conference on Water and Peace in the Americas to debate the risks of conflict in shared waters - a critical question in a region that houses over 70 major transboundary river basins and to find ways of turning them into opportunities for dialogue, cooperation and trust, so that water becomes not a trigger of war but a catalyst for regional peace. |
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20th Anniversary of the CIAV-Nicaragua (International Support and Verification Commission)The International Support and Verification Commission (Comisión Internacional de Apoyo y Verificación, CIAV) was created by the Organization of American States and the United Nations on August 25, 1989 in support of the Esquipulas II Peace Plan with the purpose of demobilizing and reinserting into society illegal armed groups. Under its mandate (1990-1997), approximately 22, 500 combatants were demobilized and 18,000 Nicaraguan citizens were repatriated from Honduras and Costa Rica. During its seven-year existance, CIAV-OAS successfully carried out a series of civilian peace-keeping and peace-building activities which involved: facilitation, dialogue and negotiation; guarantees for negotiators; disarmament; demobilization; repatriation; humanitarian assistance; verification of peace accords; human rights observation; and reintegration programs, among others. See Photo Gallery |
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Chiefs of OAS Peace Missions MeetingWashington, DCSome of the Organization’s leading experts on conflict resolution and peace building gathered at a major conference in the Hall of the Americas on September 21, 2010 to commemorate International Peace Day and mark the 20th Anniversary of the International Support and Verification Commission (CIAV-Nicaragua). This conference, organized within the framework of the Inter-American Peace Forum, featured current and former Chiefs of OAS Peace Missions who provided key insights and reflected on the main challenges and results of the missions they headed. The keynote address was made by OAS Assistant Secretary General. Ambassador Albert Ramdin, who delivered the closing remarks. This event provided a unique opportunity to examine the role of the OAS in conflict resolution in the Americas, as well as to better understand the current and potential threats to hemispheric peace and identify opportunities and challenges for future OAS Peace Missions. The CIAV/OEA, the Mission to Support the Peace Process in Colombia (MAPP/OEA), the Mission of Good Offices between Colombia and Ecuador (MIB/OEA), the Peace Fund Mission for Belize and Guatemala and the recent diplomatic mission to Honduras are some of the OAS peace initiatives discussed. Program |
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Rural Tourism Enterprises as an Income Generator Course The Course Rural Tourism Enterprises as an Income Generator took place on August 23-27, 2010, in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone under the auspices of the OAS Peace Fund and in coordination with the Young Americas Business Trust (YABT). Through this initiative, the Peace Fund hopes to help promote development in the Adjacency Zone, strengthen cooperation between Belize and Guatemala and bring the communities along the Adjacency Line closer together. Course Description With the decline of international tourism and more customers willing to vacation within their home countries, there are new opportunities for small businesses in the rural tourism sector. The creation of small businesses in the tourism sector in rural communities would have a positive impact and encourage economic growth in the region. The course will address a major consideration needed before initiating a project in rural tourism, which is the planning policies for employment creation that promote investments and new start-ups in peripheral areas. Additionally, these policies should place a strong emphasis on sustainable activities that balance development and the conservation of the environment and local customs. The objectives of the course include the development of a proposal for the creation of a rural tourism enterprise through the identification of factors and potential opportunities related to tourism development in rural areas. |
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International Peace Day |
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| CLARA ROJAS shares her account of struggle and survival in the Colombian jungle, where she was held captive by the FARC guerrilla for almost 6 years: a story of dignity, tenacity, and determination in the face of adversity.
Inter-American Peace Forum Monday, September 21, 2009 Hall of the Americas, OAS Washington, D.C.
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Clara Rojas
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The Day After Peace Documentary Sreening |
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| The Day After Peace charts the remarkable 10-year journey taken by award winning filmmaker Jeremy Gilley to establish a day of Peace on September 21st. During the course of his mission the camera follows Gilley as he galvanizes the countries of the world to recognize this as an official day of ceasefire and non-violence. After the official motion is unanimously adopted in the UN, Gilley turns his efforts to implementing the ideals of Peace Day around the world. Celebrity support from the likes of Angelina Jolie and Jonny Lee Miller and corporate support from Puma, Coca-Cola, Ben & Jerry’s and Ecover enhances the momentum. Jeremy’s persistence is rewarded when UNICEF, the World Health Organisation and local affected communities decide to try and use the Day to carry out a mass vaccination against Polio, in one of the toughest conflict areas in the world, Afghanistan. Jeremy asks Jude Law to accompany him to Afghanistan, to help persuade the government and insurgents to ratify Peace Day. The task seems impossible, but pure human spirit in a country exhausted with conflict, may just win through. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Notas de Paz |
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| A child who learns to play an instrument will never hold a weapon Notas de Paz is a youth symphonic orchestra made up of underprivileged children and youngsters from the poor neighborhood of Bellavista in the city of Cali, Colombia. Created in March, 2007 by initiative of the Scarpetta Foundation, the project aims at offering an alternative path to children who are daily exposed to the hardships of extreme poverty, violence, abuse and delinquency. Musical education is used as a strategy to foster discipline, team-spirit and tolerance as well as mutual and self-respect. Through the transforming power of music, Notas de Paz drives these children and youngsters away from violence and promotes a culture of peace in their marginalized communities. The strategy has proven to be successful as the violence indicators in the contemplated district have significantly lowered. See Full Program | Photo Gallery
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Exhibit of Historic Photographs of Columbus Memorial Library |
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| Throughout more than 60 years of existence, the OAS has strived to foster peace and prosperity in the Western Hemisphere. Preserved in the archives of the Columbus Memorial Library, the photographs that document some of the most significant moments in this quest for a peaceful hemispheric coexistence now come to light in a unique photographic exhibition. The Columbus Memorial Library houses the world's most complete collection of photographs, maps, commemorative stamps, archives, and records documenting the history of the Organization of American States and its predecessor agencies from 1889 to the present. The extensive collection of books and periodicals dates back to 1535. The library holds one of the richest repositories for material on the Inter-American system in the world. Today the Columbus Memorial Library is responsible for the Archives and Records Management Program of the OAS General Secretariat, and for preserving and indexing the OAS official documents, as well as carrying out the functions of a traditional library. The Columbus Memorial Library serves the staff of the OAS General Secretariat, Permanent Missions and Permanent Observer Missions to the OAS, Embassies and researchers throughout this hemisphere and the world. See Full Program
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Display of Major Works of Permanent Collection of the Art Museum of the Americas |
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| A selected group of major art works of the Permanent Collection of the Art Museum of the Americas will be on display at the OAS Main Building from September through December, 2009. These include an oil on canvas titled Testimonial del Tiempo by César Menendez, a Salvadoran artist whose exceptional paintings depict a surreal world that reflects death and tragedy, inspired by the struggles of the Central American people with ruling military dictatorships, as well as an important piece by Colombian artist Alejandro Obregon who at different times throughout his career produced works related to political violence in Colombia since 1948. Obregon’s Estudiante Muerto, awarded the national prize for Colombia at the 1956 Guggenheim International Exhibition, belongs to a group of paintings commemorating students and popular leaders who lost their lives during this period of social unrest. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Art Exhibition Related to Peace Permanent Collection of the Art Museum of the Americas Tuesday, September 22, 2009 OAS Main Building Washington, D.C. |
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Chalk4Peace |
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Repainting the planet the colors of peace Chalk4Peace is a global chalk art project which turns pavements into a blank canvas where young artists of all ages can create messages and images that materialize their visions of peace. Founded by John Aaron, a long time artist, educator and events coordinator, in 2003 in Arlington, Virginia, Chalk4Peace started as a Sunday sidewalk chalk project for children. It has since spread to four continents, thus becoming a global event to promote peace through art. The OAS Art Group has collaborated with Chalk4Peace since 2006 and is once again joining the initiative to celebrate the International Peace Day. See Full Program
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Coexist Sow Peace/Convivir Sembrar PazThe OAS Peace Fund proudly supported the Coexist Sow Peace Campaign in December, 2008. This initiative is sponsored by the United Nations, the Catholic Church, the UNIR Foundation, and many other institutions who are working together to create an environment where the Bolivian society can promote peace as an engine for change. It is a movement that seeks to commit every sector of the country to peaceful coexistence based on the principles of tolerance, mutual respect, acceptance and understanding of differences. |
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"Giving Peace a Chance", New Film Series in Cine Americas, from December 15 to 18The OAS Peace Fund sponsored the Cine Americas Film Series “Giving Peace a Chance” featuring selected movies from different countries in the Americas that tell stories about people trying to make the world more peaceful by resolving conflicts, dealing with the consequences of violence, following the path of nonviolence, struggling against oppression, and/or appealing to standards of justice. The movies chosen for this series address peace topics in daily life, in communities, and in international settings. Cine Americas is a program of the Art Museum of the Americas of the Organization of American States. |
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Rural Tourism Course as an Income Generator |
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Photo gallery For more information, please contact us peacefund@oas.org |
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