Mexico and Peru Restore Diplomatic Ties After Asylum Dispute

Sun Sep 06 2026 04:16:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Mexico and Peru re‑establish diplomatic relations following the asylum of former Peruvian PM Betssy Chávez, resolving tensions sparked by her escape to Mexico.

In a joint statement released on 7 August, Mexico and Peru announced the restoration of diplomatic relations after a row over former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez’s asylum in Mexico. Chávez, who was charged in connection with a 2022 coup attempt, fled to Mexico in November 2025, prompting Peru to temporarily sever ties. The new Peruvian president, Keiko Fujimori, has taken office and helped pave the way for reconciliation, with both countries reaffirming respect for international law and the UN Charter.

Mexico and Peru Restore Diplomatic Relations after Asylum Row

Mexico and Peru have agreed to re‑establish diplomatic relations following a row over the granting of asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister 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.

Background

Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá told local media outlet RPP that Chávez had been granted safe passage and had "already left Peru". While allowed to travel to Mexico, Peru maintains the right "to request the eventual extradition" of Chávez, the Peruvian Foreign Ministry added in a statement.

Speaking at her daily media briefing, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez to Mexico as she reiterated her government’s support for ousted Peruvian President Pedro Castillo. Castillo was arrested in December 2022 on charges of rebellion after attempting to dismiss congress members and install an emergency government. Hours after the attempt, Castillo was impeached.

Chávez had been imprisoned in June 2023 for her alleged role in Castillo’s plan to dissolve Congress and was released on bail in September 2025. Both she and Castillo were sentenced to more than 11 years in prison last November.

Reconciliation amid New Leadership

The restoration of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Peru comes after a new Peruvian president, Keiko Fujimori, took office last week.

Image: Former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez wearing a white turtleneck shirt and a beige cardigan, gripping the top of a wooden chair with three Peruvian flags behind her.