Mexico and Peru Re‑Establish Diplomatic Relations After Asylum Row

Sun Sep 06 2026 05:17:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Diplomatic ties between Mexico and Peru resume following the asylum granted to former Peruvian PM Betssy Chávez, easing tensions that lasted months.

Mexico and Peru announced a joint statement on 7 August restoring diplomatic relations after the asylum controversy over former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez. The two capitals highlighted shared historical ties, national law and U.N. Charter principles. Relations had been strained when Chávez sought refuge in the Mexican embassy in November 2025, after being charged in connection with a 2022 coup attempt that led to the impeachment of President Pedro Castillo. The diplomatic thaw follows the inauguration of Peru’s new president, Keiko Fujimori, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s welcome of Chávez. Both sides reaffirmed their desire for cooperation while maintaining the right to extradite Chávez if desired.

Mexico and Peru Restoring Diplomatic Relations After Asylum Row

Betssy Chávez wearing a white turtleneck and holding a wooden chair, with the Peruvian flag

Mexico and Peru have agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations following a row over the granting of asylum to former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez, who was charged for a 2022 coup attempt.

In a joint statement released on 7 August, Lima and Mexico City said that “historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation” prompted the reconciliation. The two countries also reaffirmed “their respect for international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations”.

Relations broke down after former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez sought asylum in the Mexican embassy in November 2025. Chávez had been imprisoned in June 2023 over her alleged role in the plan to dissolve congress, was released on bail in September 2025, and denied the charges. Both she and former President Pedro Castillo were sentenced to more than 11 years in prison in November 2025.

Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá told local media RPP that Chávez had been granted safe passage and had already left Peru; Peru maintains the right to “request the eventual extradition” of Chávez, the Foreign Ministry added in a statement.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez to Mexico, reiterated her support for ousted Peruvian President Pedro Castillo, and emphasized the value of cooperation under the new presidential leadership in Peru. The restoration of diplomatic ties comes only a week after Keiko Fujimori took office as Peru’s president.

This move marks a significant easing of tensions that had deepened over months of diplomatic confrontation, including statements that the Peruvian president was now considered “persona non grata” by the Mexican government. Both sides are hopeful that renewed dialogue will foster stability in the region and protect the integrity of their respective governments.

(BBC News, 7 August 2026)