The British Ambassador to Guatemala Nick Whittingham visited Quetzaltenango on 23 May to strengthen ties with the new authorities and advance UK priorities on boosting economic development.
Ambassador Whittingham engaged with government officials, civil society, and private sector. He reinforced the UK commitment to addressing shared priorities, promoting democratic values and accountability, and tackling climate change.
The Ambassador met with the Governor of Quetzaltenango, Aldo Herrera Scheel; and the Mayor, Juan Fernando López. He highlighted the opportunities to continue boosting trade through the UK-Central America Association Agreement, the possibility of sharing UK experiences in sectors such as agriculture, green-infrastructure and financial services, and the impact of UK assistance on protecting the environment and reducing poverty in rural communities.
With representatives of the private sector, Ambassador Whittingham learnt more about the work of the Management Groups and their role in promoting local economic development, with the aim of improving the standard of living of the population, through the generation of jobs and increased income. He also visited the production plant of Ron Zacapa, the emblematic Guatemalan rum, which is distilled in the highlands of Quetzaltenango 2,300 metres above sea level.
Finally, the Ambassador visited Association 32 Volcanoes jointly with the organization Rescue the Planet to promote initiatives amongst youngsters that could reduce the consumption of single-use plastics, and to share ideas on small steps that could contribute to preserve forests and water sources.
