Mexico‑Peru Resurrect Diplomacy After Asylum Dispute

Mexico and Peru have officially restored diplomatic relations after a row that began in November 2025 when the Mexican embassy offered asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez. The decision had previously led Lima to pull diplomatic staff and sever ties with Mexico.

In a joint statement today, both capitals cited their “historical ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation” as the basis for reconciliation, reaffirming their “respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.”

Chávez, who was charged over her alleged role in a 2022 coup attempt that deposed President Pedro Castillo, was granted safe passage to Mexico and has left Peru. The Peruvian Foreign Ministry said the exile allows her to travel to Mexico but the country maintains the right to seek extradition if desired.

The restoration follows the inauguration of Keiko Fujimori as Peru’s new president, a move seen as stabilizing after the political turmoil that followed Castillo’s arrest and impeachment in December 2022. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico welcomed Chávez and reaffirmed support for former President Castillo’s position, reflecting the enduring political frictions that now appear to be easing.

The whole episode underscored how sensitive asylum decisions can become high‑level diplomatic wedges, but it also shows how new leadership can pave the way for thawing tensions and renewing cooperation between neighboring states.