Following a diplomatic controversy that ruptured international relations late last year, former Council of Ministers president Betssy Chávez left Peru after receiving an official safe-conduct from the government of President Keiko Fujimori, according to statements confirmed by Foreign Minister Carlos Espá. Chávez departed the country around midnight after residing under diplomatic asylum inside the embassy of Mexico in Lima, positioning the two nations to resume normal diplomatic channels and reopen embassy operations.
Diplomatic Resolution and Reopening of Embassy Relations
The signing of the diplomatic safe-conduct document resolves a lengthy legal dispute between the Peruvian Cancillería and the Mexican government that began following political developments in late November. Foreign Minister Carlos Espá confirmed the exit during an interview on RPP program La Rotativa del Aire, stating that Chávez had already left Peru around midnight and was in good health. Espá also confirmed plans to reopen the Mexican embassy headquarters in Peru, noting that ambassador-level relations are officially re-establishing to return both countries to normality.
Sentencing and the 2022 Political Crisis
Chávez’s departure follows a judicial sentence issued on November 27, when she was condemned to 11 years, 5 months, and 15 days of prison for the crime of conspiracy to commit rebellion. The judiciary tied her conviction to her participation in the December 7, 2022, attempted coup d’état led by former president Pedro Castillo. On the day of the ruling, the Judiciary ordered a national and international capture order against her.
Did You Know? Days before her sentencing was announced, on November 3, the former premier entered the embassy of Mexico in Lima to request and obtain diplomatic asylum, remaining protected there until securing the newly issued safe-conduct to travel to Mexican territory.
Path Toward Integration and Foreign Policy Stance
The transition in diplomatic posture follows statements made by Foreign Minister Espá on July 27, when he indicated that the incoming administration’s first Council of Ministers would define Peru’s official stance regarding the legal situation of the former cabinet chief. Espá subsequently advocated for normalizing ties with Mexico, characterizing the two nations as sibling countries sharing deep historical and cultural roots. Following the military civic parade for Fiestas Patrias, Espá reiterated that both nations must promptly resume their integration path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who authorized the safe-conduct for Betssy Chávez?
The safe-conduct was granted by the government of President Keiko Fujimori, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Carlos Espá.
What was Betssy Chávez convicted of?
She was condemned on November 27 to 11 years, 5 months, and 15 days of prison for the crime of conspiracy for rebellion due to her participation in the December 7, 2022, attempted coup d’état.
What is the status of diplomatic relations between Peru and Mexico?
Relations are being re-established at the ambassador level, with plans to reopen the Mexican embassy headquarters in Peru to restore normal relations.