The China Disabled Persons Performing Arts Troupe is set to arrive in Belize on Saturday for a performance on Sunday night. Featuring persons who are blind, deaf, and mute, the Troupe is well recognized internationally for their awe-inspiring performances.
But, tonight the Belize-Chinese community isn't happy with the Government of Belize - because they have to come up with sixty-six thousand dollars to pay for the visas for the 33 members of the troupe.
Now, the troupe will only be here from Saturday to Tuesday - and the precedent with other Asian performers is that they usually get the fee waived - since it is a goodwill cultural visit.
But, these mainland Chinese performers aren't getting any waiver - because, reportedly, because the minister has no power to waive fees.
It's caused lots of bad feelings in the Belize - Chinese community where they feel they are being treated unfairly. We stress there's a difference between mainland Chinese and Taiwanese.
And, right now with tensions between mainland China and Taiwan running very high - some in the Chinese community feel Belize is - so to speak - sweating fever for Taiwan.
Speaking with us today, the president off the Belize Chinese Association's Edmund Quan declined comment saying he hopes something can be worked out. We'll keep following the story.
Email
Print