Belize has been appointed as the Chair of the World Bank’s Small States Forum (SSF) for the term spanning January 2026 to December 2028. This significant development underscores Belize’s growing influence in addressing the unique challenges faced by small and vulnerable economies on the global stage. The announcement was made during the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, held in Washington, D.C., from October 13 to 17, 2025. Prime Minister John Briceño will spearhead the forum’s initiatives, focusing on crafting tailored solutions to economic and environmental issues that disproportionately affect small states. The Small States Forum, a platform uniting finance ministers and central bank governors from over 50 countries, plays a pivotal role in addressing vulnerabilities such as limited economic diversification, climate risks, and external shocks. Belize’s leadership comes at a crucial juncture as the World Bank finalizes its new Small States Strategy, aimed at providing more effective support to these nations. In a pre-recorded address, Prime Minister Briceño expressed his gratitude for the appointment and emphasized Belize’s dedication to securing “fit-for-purpose programmes and initiatives” for small economies. Belize succeeds the Republic of Cabo Verde in this role. The Belizean delegation, led by Financial Secretary Joseph Waight, included key figures such as Central Bank Governor Kareem Michael and Ambassador to the U.S. Nestor Mendez, who outlined Belize’s strategic priorities for the new framework.