National Security Strategy of Belize 1. Maintain the Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity of Belize “ Strategic Concept: In order for Belize to guarantee its territorial integrity, it must continuously engage the international community at the diplomatic level and seek security cooperation with its regional neighbours and other friendly nations. In respect of the border dispute with Guatemala, the confidence building measures presently in place require expansion to include cultural and academic level exchanges. The mixed commission should be the vehicle for further cooperation with Guatemala. There should be continued efforts to accede to international treaties and agreements which aim to promote and ensure international peace and security such as arms control, counter-terrorism, extradition and mutual legal assistance treaties to enhance regional stability and facilitate law enforcement efforts. The adoption and implementation of laws to counter illicit activities over Belize’s land, air and maritime spaces need strengthening. Belize must maintain absolute administrative control of the common borders with México and Guatemala. To support this initiative there is a need to maintain modern, professional, balanced security forces that are properly equipped, proficient and technologically prepared to cooperate and contribute to national and regional security. Belize should strive to influence regional and international policies on Belize and to be a regional exemplar of good governance. Security cooperation and political agreements within the Caribbean and Central America should be made to actively promote peace and regional stability. “ Strategic Action: • • • • • • • Continued diplomatic engagement regionally and internationally; A public information campaign to advance Belize’s cause in selected countries and multilateral fora; Appropriately resourced professional development and training programs for Belize’s Foreign Service personnel and members of the security forces; Equipment to effectively manage and control Belize’s land, sea and air space; Improved coordination of the intelligence gathering arms of the Security Forces in disseminating their intelligence to an Intelligence Fusion Centre, to ensure better flow of intelligence, nationally and regionally; Develop a border management system. A properly equipped, combat-ready BDF capable of deterring external attacks and defusing internal threats to Belize; The Strategy 14