July 18, 2011 No. 27/11-BD CDB APPROVES A COUNTRY STRATEGY FOR BELIZE The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a country strategy for Belize which outlines the proposed CDB assistance to that county over the period 2011-15. This strategy was arrived at after discussion with various stakeholders, including officials of the Government of Belize, selected private sector bodies, non-Governmental Organisations and the country's other development partners. CDB will assist Belize to strengthen the environment and the institutional framework for sustainable growth, given the need to enhance growth as an anchor for poverty reduction. The proposed interventions are designed to contribute to the maintenance of a stable macroeconomic environment, improved public financial management, and an enhanced environment for output growth. Recognising that growth by itself may not be sufficient to reduce poverty, it is proposed that the Bank assist Belize to close the poverty gap by improving the opportunities for its citizens to escape poverty, increase inclusivity and reduce vulnerability. Therefore, other interventions have been designed to contribute to an improved quality in and access to education and training, enhanced social and community development, and improved environmental sustainability.