Amidst ongoing political instability in Peru, Mexico’s diplomatic presence in the country is now being overseen by Brazil, a move formalized Sunday following a complete breakdown in bilateral relations. The shift comes after Peru severed ties with mexico over two months ago, protesting Mexico City’s decision to grant political asylum to a former Peruvian official aligned with ousted President Pedro Castillo. This arrangement, made under the terms of the vienna Convention on Diplomatic relations, highlights the escalating diplomatic complexities within Latin America.
Mexico’s diplomatic interests in Peru are now being represented by Brazil, following a breakdown in relations between Mexico City and Lima over the granting of political asylum. The move, formalized on Sunday, January 28, comes after Peru severed diplomatic ties with Mexico more than two months ago, escalating tensions between the two nations.
The Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Relations (SRE) announced the decision, stating it is in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. According to the SRE, Brazil will “assume the representation of Mexican interests in Peruvian territory, including the custody of the facilities of the Mexican Embassy in Peru, including the head of mission’s residence, as well as its assets and archives.”
The diplomatic rift began on November 3, 2023, when Peru’s interim government announced it was breaking off relations with Mexico. Lima cited Mexico’s decision to offer asylum to former Prime Minister Betssy Chávez Chino, who previously served as chief of staff to ousted President Pedro Castillo, as an “unfriendly act.”
Mexico swiftly rejected Peru’s decision as “unilateral” and “excessive and disproportionate.” Officials in Mexico City maintained that offering asylum to Chávez Chino was a “legitimate act in accordance with international law” and did not constitute interference in Peru’s internal affairs.
Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Relations confirmed its role in safeguarding the Mexican embassy in Lima, stating it would protect the embassy building, the residence of the Mexican head of mission, and all associated assets and archival materials. The development underscores the increasing complexity of diplomatic relations in Latin America.
Mexican diplomats were withdrawn from Peru in November, though consular relations between the two countries have continued. Peruvian officials indicated on Saturday, January 27, that Brazil had taken charge of the Mexican embassy following coordination with local authorities.
