Funding support to Belize

As requested by the Government of Belize, India will provide funding support of US$ 1,000,000 from the India-UN Development Partnership Fund for the project, “strengthening of the maternal and child health services in CARICOM member states to support the attainment, maintenance and sustainability of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B.”

2. The project aims to undertake a coordinated approach to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis-B in the Caribbean countries. This will be achieved through the establishment of standardized norms and protocols, enhanced surveillance and electronic monitoring systems, strengthened laboratory services and increased skills of health care workers.

3. It may be recalled that the Prime Minister of India, during his meeting with leaders of the CARICOM in New York in September 2019, had emphasized on partnering with the CARICOM countries in a way that addresses the needs and priorities of the CARICOM. This project, which will strengthen Caribbean countries’ response to HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis-B, is one of the key priorities for the Government of Belize and the region.

4. The Permanent Representative of India, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj said, “India has been supporting Belize for meeting its socio-economic developmental needs and providing humanitarian assistance whenever needed. India was one of the first responders when Belize had asked our support for strengthening its COVID-19 response. This project when completed will further step up primary prevention and treatment services for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis-B.”

5. The India-UN Development Partnership Fund, established by Government of India in June 2017, provides support to projects in developing countries that aim to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Fund adheres to the principles of South-South cooperation and places a priority on national ownership and leadership, equality, sustainability, development of local capacity and mutual benefit. A total of US$ 150 million over the next decade has been committed by the Government of India for the Fund.

18 August 2023