By Belize Live News Staff: Mohamed Salam, the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) Commissioner Coordinator for the Anti-Apartheid Department, is in Belize for an official visit aimed at strengthening ties between Belize and Palestine while advocating for the Palestinian cause. Salam, who arrived on Tuesday, was greeted by Nancy Marin, leader of the Belize People’s Front.
The PLO, internationally recognized as the official representative of the Palestinian people, continues to advocate for Palestinian self-determination despite facing internal political challenges. During an interview at the airport, Salam expressed optimism about his visit, saying, “We are hopeful that we will do a lot of work together to help the Palestinian cause and also to cement the relationship between Belize and Palestine.”
Salam’s agenda includes high-level meetings with Prime Minister John Briceño, former Prime Minister Said Musa, who is of Palestinian descent, and Kareem Musa, the Minister of Home Affairs. These discussions are expected to cover topics such as enforcing international rulings on the Palestinian situation, including measures by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Salam also plans to discuss the possibility of Belize banning imports of agricultural products from Israeli settlements.
The visit seeks to promote academic ties as well, with plans for establishing scholarship programs between the University of Belize and Palestinian universities. Salam acknowledged Belize’s consistent support for the Palestinian people, particularly during the recent conflict that escalated after October 7, 2023.
In reference to a ceasefire agreement that has been negotiated and approved by Israel’s Cabinet and is expected to take effect on Sunday, Salam expressed hope for its success but attributed its potential failure to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership: “If it does not materialize, it will be Netanyahu’s fault.”
The PLO delegation will also be hosted for lunch by former Prime Minister Said Musa and Minister Kareem Musa, highlighting their shared heritage and ties to the Palestinian cause. Later, they will visit the University of Belize to foster academic collaboration, marking another step toward solidifying the relationship between Palestine and Belize.
Salam’s visit underscores the importance of international solidarity and collaboration, with both nations exploring avenues for mutual growth and understanding.
