In brief
Mexico and Peru have agreed to restore diplomatic relations after the former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez was granted asylum in Mexico in November 2025. The two governments cited historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation as the basis for the reconciliation, reaffirming respect for international law and the UN Charter. Relations had broken down when Peru cut ties in response to the asylum claim. Both nations now reaffirmed the possibility of extraditing Chávez and are working towards a new diplomatic framework. The decision comes shortly after the inauguration of Peru’s new president, Keiko Fujimori.
Mexico and Peru have agreed to restore diplomatic relations following a row over the granting of asylum to former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez, who was charged in connection with a 2022 coup attempt.
In a joint statement released on 7 August 2026, Lima and Mexico City noted that "historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation" prompted the reconciliation. Both countries reaffirmed "their respect for international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations".
Relations had broken down after Chávez sought asylum in the Mexican embassy in November 2025, leading Peru to cut ties. The restoration follows the recent inauguration of Peru’s new president, Keiko Fujimori, who took office last week.
Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá told local media that Chávez had been granted safe passage and had "already left Peru". Peru retains the right to request extradition, the ministry added in a statement. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez to Mexico, reaffirming support for the ousted Peruvian president Pedro Castillo.
Castillo was arrested in December 2022 on charges of rebellion after attempting to dismiss Peruvian congress members and set up an emergency government. He was impeached hours after the attempt. Both Chávez and Castillo were later sentenced to over 11 years in prison.
