Peru and Mexico restore diplomatic ties after asylum deal for ex-PM

Peru and Mexico have formally restored diplomatic relations, ending a rupture that began in November 2025. The breakthrough came after Lima granted safe passage to Betssy Chávez, a former Peruvian prime minister who had been living in asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima for over 200 days.

Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá confirmed that Chávez was given safe conduct on Thursday night and departed for Mexico aboard a Mexican aircraft sent to collect her. The development was announced in a joint statement from both governments on Friday, which reaffirmed their commitment to international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum credited Peru's incoming president, Keiko Fujimori, for initiating the resolution. Sheinbaum said Fujimori personally contacted Mexico's foreign minister and expressed her willingness to resolve Chávez's situation by granting safe passage once she assumed office.

Chávez served as prime minister under former President Pedro Castillo, who was impeached and imprisoned in December 2022 after attempting to dissolve Congress. The move deepened a political crisis that led to protests and the deaths of 50 demonstrators during a crackdown under then-President Dina Boluarte.

Mexico, under both former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Sheinbaum, had repeatedly called for Castillo's release. Sheinbaum said Friday that while relations are being restored, Mexico will continue to defend Castillo. Both Castillo and Chávez were later sentenced to 11 years in prison for conspiracy to rebel; Castillo has appealed and faces other corruption investigations.

Chávez had been granted diplomatic asylum by Mexico shortly after Peru severed ties in November 2025. Her departure now paves the way for a new chapter in bilateral relations, with Fujimori having earlier signalled her intention to repair the diplomatic breach.