Prime Minister Dean Barrow has traveled to New York City, New York to take part in activities for Belize's 30th Anniversary of Independence. According an official statement from the PM's Office, Mr. Barrow is expected back in the country on Sunday. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega will hold over the reins of government in Belmopan.

from a friend....

Photos of Belize Gala in NY

I finally got around to uploading pictures from the NY Independence Gala last weekend. The event started at 9pm and went until 3am. The PM came alone this year. He did not even have any of his aides with him, just a couple of security people. Ambassador Mendez was unable to attend and the PM's wife did not attend, either. Mr. Barrow was in his element and spent a lot of time talking with people and stayed fairly late. With his wife not there he hit the dance floor with several different ladies during the evening. He did not shy away from any of the recent controversies during a long speech to the the crowd. And he also had some very kind remarks about Mr. Price.

I have not had time to label these 60+ pictures so it's just the photos with no names or anything.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mopan/sets/72157627788437832/

Who sponsored this trip? Who pays for it?

GOB I assume. Each PM has always courted Belizeans living in the US, who are a source of income for their families back home, potential donors and fundraisers and possibly, return to Belize to retire and offer their expertise. Its not for votes, as Belize does not have absentee ballots like the US does and you must be here and registered to vote on election day.

Most countries throughout the world send their PM's all over to meet with business leaders as well as their own citizens. The governments regard it as necessary so they have some stature in the world community.