In a significant diplomatic ceremony on February 20, 2026, the Government of Belize bestowed one of its highest national honors upon Taiwanese Ambassador Lily Li Wen Hsu, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to bilateral relations and national development. The Order of Distinction was formally conferred by Governor General Dame Froyla Tzalam, acting on behalf of Prime Minister John Briceño, following recommendations from the National Honors & Awards Advisory Committee.
Secretary Stuart Leslie presented the official citation highlighting Ambassador Hsu’s three-year tenure characterized by “diligent labor on behalf of Belize’s improvement,” noting her personal sacrifices and hands-on approach to development projects. The ambassador’s work transcended traditional diplomatic duties, earning her recognition as someone who became “family” to the Belizean people through community-level engagement.
In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Hsu expressed profound gratitude, reflecting on her service period that began at the pandemic’s conclusion. She praised Belize’s remarkable recovery efforts and the nation’s balanced approach to environmental conservation and economic development. “It has been a great privilege to serve my country and work with our Belizean friends to deepen the bonds between our two nations,” stated Hsu, characterizing her assignment as “inspiring and rewarding.”
Governor General Tzalam framed the honor within the context of global citizenship, emphasizing how physical boundaries no longer limit nation-building in the modern era. The award represents Belize’s formal acknowledgment of foreign representatives who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the country’s development through “outstanding and meritorious service.” The ceremony underscored the strengthening Taiwan-Belize relations through practical cooperation and mutual respect.