In a significant development, Belize and the United States have recently signed a two-year agreement aimed at providing a safe haven for refugees deported from the U.S. The deal, which excludes Guatemalans, targets nationals from Central America and the Caribbean. However, the agreement has sparked widespread debate, with critics raising concerns about its implications for Belize’s population and economy, particularly amid ongoing inflation challenges. Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca addressed these issues in a recent interview, emphasizing the transparency and procedural rigor of the agreement’s implementation. Fonseca confirmed that the agreement has been shared with the Senate for ratification and will require amendments to Belize’s domestic legislation, including the Refugees Act. He also highlighted the need for finalized operational procedures between Belize and the U.S. before the agreement can take effect. Importantly, Fonseca assured that the process would be open and transparent, with a cap of no more than ten refugees transferred to Belize annually. The agreement’s focus on Central American and Caribbean nationals, excluding Guatemala, underscores Belize’s strategic approach to managing refugee inflows while safeguarding its national interests.