Mexico and Peru have agreed to re‑establish diplomatic relations following a row over the granting of asylum to former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chávez, who faced charges related to a 2022 coup attempt. In a joint statement issued on 7 August 2026, the two capitals cited historic ties of brotherhood, friendship and cooperation as the basis for reconciliation. Both governments reaffirmed their respect for international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Relations had deteriorated after Betssy Chávez sought asylum in the Mexican embassy in November 2025.
Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espá informed local media 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 Foreign Ministry added. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed Chávez to Mexico, reiterating her government’s support for ousted Peruvian President Pedro Castillo. Castillo was arrested in December 2022 on charges of rebellion after attempting to dismiss Peruvian congress members and install an emergency government; he was impeached within hours. Chávez had been imprisoned in June 2023 over her alleged role in Castillo’s plan to dissolve congress and was released on bail in September 2025, refusing the charges. Both she and Castillo were sentenced to more than 11 years in prison in November 2025. The restoration of diplomatic relations follows the inauguration of Peru’s new president Keiko Fujimori last week.
