By Belize Live News Staff: Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francis Fonseca, has welcomed Rhonda Slusher as the new US Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Belmopan.
The formal presentation was made by outgoing Chargé d’Affaires David Hodge during a meeting at the embassy.
The role of the Deputy Chief of Mission is a pivotal one in US diplomatic missions worldwide.
As the second-highest-ranking officer, the DCM serves as a senior advisor to the ambassador, manages the embassy’s daily affairs, and assumes the position of Chargé d’Affaires in the ambassador’s absence or when the position is vacant.
The US has been without a confirmed ambassador to Belize since the departure of Michelle Kwan in January. David Hodge has been serving as the acting head of mission during this time, overseeing operations and maintaining bilateral engagement.
With Slusher’s appointment, the embassy continues its work while awaiting the announcement of a new ambassador from the US government.
