<P> Belize - United States relations have traditionally been close and cordial . The United States is Belize's principal trading partner and major source of investment funds . It is also home to the largest Belizean community outside Belize, estimated to be 70,000 strong . Because Belize's economic growth and accompanying democratic political stability are important U.S. objectives, Belize benefits from the U.S. Caribbean Basin Initiative . The United States is the largest provider of economic assistance to Belize, contributing via various bilateral economic and military aid programmes . </P> <P> Belize is a member of the Commonwealth and was granted independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 . The United Kingdom maintains a training centre for the army in Belize . </P> <P> In order to strengthen its potential for economic and political development Belize has sought to build closer ties with the Spanish - speaking countries of Central America to complement its historical ties to the English - speaking Caribbean states . </P>

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