By Belize Live News Staff: Belize is moving to strengthen its economic and diplomatic ties with El Salvador, as Prime Minister John Briceño wraps up a visit that has seen him take on a key regional leadership role.
The Prime Minister traveled to El Salvador, where, although his trip had not been officially announced in advance, he assumed the pro tempore presidency of the Central American Integration System, or SICA. The rotating presidency places Belize at the helm of the regional bloc for a period, and at the official handover, Briceño reaffirmed Belize’s commitment to deeper regional integration and cooperation.
During the visit, Briceño held talks with El Salvador’s Vice President, Félix Ulloa. An Instagram post indicated that the two focused their conversation on building cooperation, strengthening the partnership between their countries, and identifying new areas for collaboration.
Perhaps the most concrete outcome on the horizon is a new trade arrangement. Cabinet recently gave its approval for Belize to sign and eventually ratify a Partial Scope Agreement with El Salvador. This type of agreement allows two countries to grant each other trade preferences on a defined range of products, offering a practical way to boost commerce without committing to a comprehensive free trade deal. The signing is scheduled to take place on July 2, 2026, in San Salvador.
For Belize, the timing is significant. By stepping into the SICA leadership role while also advancing a bilateral trade agreement, the country is signalling its intent to play a more active part in the region and to open new doors for trade and partnership with its neighbors.
