**Mexico and Peru Restore Diplomatic Relations Following Asylum Dispute**
Mexico City, Mexico - In a significant diplomatic development, Mexico and Peru have agreed to restore their diplomatic relations after a contentious dispute over the asylum granted to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez. This decision was announced in a joint statement released on August 7, highlighting the "historic ties of brotherhood, friendship, and cooperation" that underpin the relationship between the two nations.
The diplomatic rift began in November 2025 when Chávez sought asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima amid charges related to a coup attempt in Peru. The situation escalated, leading Peru to sever diplomatic ties with Mexico. In response to Chávez's asylum claim, the Peruvian Congress declared the Mexican president a "persona non grata," further straining relations.
Chávez had been embroiled in controversy since her imprisonment in June 2023, linked to her alleged involvement in the actions of former President Pedro Castillo, who attempted to dissolve Congress in December 2022. Following his impeachment, Castillo was arrested on charges of rebellion. Both Chávez and Castillo were sentenced to over 11 years in prison in November 2025, although Chávez was released on bail in September of the same year.
Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá confirmed to local media that Chávez had been granted safe passage to Mexico and had already left Peru. The Peruvian Foreign Ministry noted that while Chávez is now in Mexico, the country retains the right to request her extradition in the future.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez to Mexico, reaffirming her government's support for the ousted President Castillo. This support has been a point of contention in the bilateral relations between Mexico and Peru, particularly during the previous administration.
The restoration of diplomatic ties comes at a time of political transition in Peru, with Keiko Fujimori recently taking office as the new president. The joint statement from both countries emphasized a commitment to respect international law and the principles outlined in the Charter of the United Nations, marking a hopeful step towards mending relations that had been strained for nearly two years.
As both nations move forward, the implications of this diplomatic reconciliation will be closely monitored, particularly in light of the ongoing political challenges in Peru and the broader regional dynamics in Latin America.