By Belize Live News Staff: Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca has reiterated Belize’s firm stance on the Sarstoon River, following remarks made by Ambassador Assad Shoman that drew criticism. During a recent interview, Shoman suggested that Belizeans should not be overly alarmed by recent aggressive incidents in the Sarstoon, causing concern among some, including the Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV).
In response, the BTV sent a letter to Prime Minister John Briceño, expressing frustration with what they viewed as the ambassador downplaying the situation. They also noted Shoman’s admission of uncertainty regarding the timeline for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings on the issue.
When questioned, Minister Fonseca emphasized that the matter is under the jurisdiction of the ICJ, which sets the timeline. He assured Belizeans that the government has consistently defended the country’s territorial rights and has made its position clear to Guatemala, both in public and diplomatic settings.
“We’ve always said that once we receive a date for the hearings, we will respond, and then the court will make a final determination,” Fonseca said, noting that the process may take up to two years. Despite the delays, he remains confident that Belize’s position is strong and well-represented.
