Belmopan, September 21, 2025 – Belize celebrated the central events of its 44th Independence Anniversary this Sunday, in a day marked by solemnity, historical symbolism, and the presence of prominent national and international authorities.
The celebrations began with the national anthem and a military parade, followed by the official ceremony presided over by the Governor-General of Belize, the Prime Minister, the President of the Supreme Court, the Bishop of the Anglican Church of Belize, and the Mayor of the capital, Belmopan.
The event was attended by representatives from 44 friendly countries, including the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), represented by the ambassador, Mohamed Zrug. The Sahrawi diplomat was received by the National Director of Protocol and conveyed the congratulations of the Sahrawi government to Belize's Minister of Foreign Affairs. He also delivered an official letter from the Sahrawi President addressed to the Prime Minister of Belize, the Hon. John Antonio Briceño.
In his address, the Prime Minister recalled the historical moments leading up to the proclamation of independence on September 21, 1981, highlighting the essential role played by the country's founding fathers and mothers. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of national unity in facing the challenges of an ever-changing world.
“The people of Belize have made significant progress in social and democratic matters over these four decades. But there is still a road ahead. It is time to redouble our efforts to build a bright future for our nation,” declared Prime Minister Briceño.
On the eve of the celebrations, the Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that Belize's "foreign policy will continue to be driven by cardinal principles of international law, including the defense of sovereignty and the right of peoples to self-determination".
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1986, Belize and the Sahrawi Republic have maintained high-level ties through non-resident ambassadors. Both nations share spaces for dialogue and coordination within the Caribbean framework and other multilateral platforms, especially on key foreign policy issues.
The 44th Independence Anniversary reaffirms Belize’s commitment to democratic values, international cooperation, and the defense of its sovereignty as a free and peaceful nation in the heart of Central America and the Caribbean.
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