After more than three years of tensions, Mexico and Peru restored diplomatic relations on Friday. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum described the move as important for rebuilding ties between the two countries.
As relations were normalized, Peru issued former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez a safe-conduct document at the request of the Mexican government. Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the document was issued under the 1954 Caracas Convention, to which both countries are parties.
The Peruvian government said the decision did not prevent judicial authorities from seeking Chavez’s extradition if they submitted a request. Peru reserved the right to seek extradition under applicable bilateral and international agreements.
Legal proceedings against Chavez
Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Chavez had been found guilty as a co-perpetrator of conspiring to attempt a rebellion against the constitutional order. The ministry said the offense is set out in Article 349 of Peru’s Penal Code.
The National Prosecutor’s Office is also investigating Chavez over allegations of illicit enrichment and constitutional offenses, the ministry said.
The ministry stressed that Chavez was not facing political prosecution. Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also said the country remained committed to the rule of law, the separation of powers and a fair trial.
Tensions began in December 2022
Relations between Mexico and Peru deteriorated after former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress in December 2022. Castillo was removed from office and detained.
Lima then downgraded diplomatic relations after Mexico granted asylum to Castillo’s family members and Chavez.
Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said consultations within the Organization of American States were continuing to prevent distortions in the application of diplomatic asylum. The ministry said it wanted the efforts to preserve the original purpose of diplomatic asylum.
