44 Years of a Sovereign BelizeIt’s been forty-four years of a sovereign Belize, and that many years celebrating the nation’s birth. Under this year’s theme, “Stronger Together, Rising Forever,” Prime Minister John Briceño paid tribute to the nation’s forefathers, heroes, and the sacrifices that paved the way for independence. “Together we build and continue to build upon a young yet proud legacy of social, economic, and environmental justice,” Prime Minister Briceño said in his address. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed with News 5 that Guatemalan Armed Forces Vessels (GAF) entered Belize’s territorial waters on Independence Day in the Sarstoon Area. According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official, Belize Coast Guard personnel approached the vessels and informed them that they were in Belize’s territory.