The UK and Guatemala have signed a partnership agreement to support the Metro Riel project, a major transport initiative in Guatemala City. The agreement was signed in Guatemala City on 9 July by representatives of the UK and Guatemala, and was attended by President Bernardo Arévalo, Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martínez, and British Ambassador Juliana Correa.
The Metro Riel project aims to improve transport connections across Guatemala City's metropolitan area. Through the partnership, the UK and Guatemala will work together to support the planning and delivery of the project. The UK will share its expertise in rail systems, public transport, and other large-scale infrastructure projects, including experience from major projects delivered in the UK and around the world.
The partnership will also promote knowledge sharing with Infrastructure Exports: UK and explore financing opportunities through UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK's export credit agency. The agreement creates a joint working group that will meet twice a year to identify opportunities for co-operation, coordinate activities, and review progress.
In a statement, Juliana Correa, British Ambassador to Guatemala and Honduras, said, 'Guatemala has an ambitious vision to modernise its infrastructure and improve connectivity for millions of people. We are proud to support that effort by sharing the expertise the UK has developed in delivering complex projects around the world and across the region, helping to promote high standards of quality, transparency, and efficiency.'