Mexico, Peru normalize diplomatic relations after asylum row

Sun Sep 06 2026 01:26:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Mexico and Peru have restored ties following the asylum granted to former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez amid a 2022 coup dispute.

Mexico and Peru agreed to re‑establish diplomatic relations after the asylum of former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez prompted a diplomatic rift. A joint statement cited historic brotherhood and respect for UN principles as the basis for reconciliation. The move followed Chávez’s safe passage to Mexico after her arrest and alleged involvement in a 2022 coup attempt. Peru remains ready to seek her extradition if needed, while Mexico welcomed her. The restoration comes as Keiko Fujimori takes office in Peru.

Mexico, Peru normalize diplomatic relations after asylum row

Mexico and Peru have agreed to restore diplomatic ties following a dispute that erupted when former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez was granted asylum in the Mexican embassy in November 2025.

Betssy Chávez wearing a white turtleneck shirt and a buttoned‑up, beige cardigan, gripping the top of a wooden chair — Former Peruvian prime minister granted asylum by Mexico in November 2025

In a joint statement released on 7 August, both capitals cited "historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation" as a basis for reconciliation, affirming "respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter."

The dispute stemmed from Betssy Chávez’s request for asylum after her arrest and subsequent allegations of her involvement in a 2022 coup attempt against then‑President Pedro Castillo. Though she was released on bail in September 2025 and denied the charges, Mexico’s decision for her safe passage led Peru to declare the Mexican embassy "persona non grata" temporarily.

President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez into Mexico, while Peru’s foreign ministry remains prepared to seek extradition if necessary. The restoration of ties comes after a new Peruvian presidency, with Keiko Fujimori taking office last week.