07 July, 2000 - Belmopan
A bilateral meeting between the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and
Cooperatives, MAFC and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food
(MAGA) of Guatemala was held on Thursday, 6 July, 2000 at the OIRSA
Conference Room in Belmopan.

The Hon. Daniel Silva welcomed the Guatemalan delegation and stated that
both countries have similar problems so the collaborative efforts and
experiences are necessary for a closer working relationship.

The officials agreed to sustain technical cooperation and coordination
between both countries:

• In the production of the parasite Anagyrus kamali to control the Pink
  Hibiscus Mealybug.
• Work together in the movement of livestock, from Belize to Guatemala
  and vice versa in relation to the control of diseases.
• Negotiate trade efforts so that Guatemala can buy livestock from
  Belize since Belize is free of certain livestock diseases.

The meeting also proposed the exchange of technical experiences and
information; and pests under quarantine and increase trade between both
countries.

The next bilateral meeting is scheduled for 6 August 2000 in Santa
Elena, Peten, Guatemala.