This morning before dawn, Donald Trump clinched the victory in the US Presidential Elections - earning his second term in office with a commanding victory.
His election marks a sharp pivot for the US - and for its foreign policy ambitions. Trump has said he will transform America's relationship with allies and adversaries, and he was elected on the promise of mass deportations.
What does that mean for Belize - especially with so many having left out shores to seek. Asylum in the States?
Today we asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs his thoughts on the election result, and whether he believes Belizeans in the US should be concerned.
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"Belize always respects the will of the people. The American people have spoken very clearly and very loudly and so, Belize enjoys a very strong friendship and partnership with the United States of America. We congratulate the president elect Donald Trump, and we look forward, in 2025, we look forward to working with his administration and we look forward to continuing to strengthen the relationship between Belize and the United States, it's a very important relationship for us and we are committed to working closely with any US president and their administration to advance our mutual needs and interests."
Courtney Menzies:
"We know that Trump ran on an anti-immigration policy. Do you believe it is particularly concerning for Belizeans who are living there, particularly asylum seekers that went over there recently to the US?"
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"Yeah, I mean, yes, the President, during his campaign made certain policy statements on immigration. Of course we will have to wait and see what actually happens. but I think everyone knows, I think one of the great attributes of the United States of America is that it's a country of laws, it's a country that has demonstrated over centuries its commitment to the rule of law and so I don't think that Belizeans who are living there should be in fear. Obviously if you're an illegal immigrant, I expect that you're always a bit anxious about your status so I guess that will continue but we certainly hope that the new administration coming in will fully, and we expect them to full abide by the international laws as well as their own domestic laws and of course always treat immigrants with respect and dignity."
The PUP administration took office during the final, tumultuous months of Trump's first term as president.
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