Peru Declares Mexican President Persona Non Grata
Peru escalated diplomatic tensions with Mexico after its Congress declared Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum persona non grata. The move followed Sheinbaum’s decision to grant political asylum to Betssy Chavez, a former Peruvian Prime Minister.
Severing Diplomatic Relations
After Sheinbaum confirmed granting asylum to Chavez, Peru’s government, led by Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela, announced the severance of all diplomatic ties with Mexico.
Background of Tensions
The strained relationship between Mexico and Peru traces back to Mexico’s support for former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo. Castillo was ousted in December 2022 and arrested after attempting an unconstitutional self-coup.
- Castillo announced the dissolution of Congress and declared an emergency government to rule by decree.
- He called for new elections hours before Congress was set to hold a third impeachment vote against him.
- Mexico granted asylum to Castillo’s wife and children, prompting Peru to expel Mexico’s ambassador.
Betssy Chavez's Status
Chavez is currently sheltered at the Mexican embassy residence in Lima. Mexico recognizes her as a politically persecuted individual, a status protected by international law.
"Mexico and Peru have a tense relationship stemming from Mexico's support for former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo after his December 2022 ousting and arrest... Mexico granted asylum to Castillo's wife and children, which led Peru to expel Mexico's ambassador."
Author's summary: Tensions between Peru and Mexico deepened when Peru declared Mexico’s president persona non grata amid asylum grants to former Peruvian officials, leading to a diplomatic break.