The U.S. Ambassador to Peru, Bernie Navarro, has signaled Washington’s growing concern over China’s influence in the South American nation, particularly regarding the recently developed Chancay Port. Navarro’s comments come as the U.S. Seeks to strengthen its strategic partnership with Peru and counter Beijing’s expanding economic footprint in the region.
In his first interview with Peruvian media, Navarro outlined priorities set by President Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of the longstanding relationship between the two countries. He stated that the 200-year alliance should be reinforced, noting Peru’s strategic importance to U.S. Interests in the Western Hemisphere. This comes after the release of the U.S. National Security Policy in December, which identified the region as a priority.
Navarro highlighted Peru’s stability, critical mineral resources, and security ties as key factors in the U.S. Strategy. He affirmed continued U.S. Support in these areas, adding, “Perú is one of our strategic partners.”
Bernie Navarro, U.S. Ambassador to Peru, in an exclusive interview with Diario Gestión. Photo: Julio Reaño/@photo.gec.
The ambassador expressed concern over recent judicial decisions surrounding the port of Chancay, raising questions about potential Chinese control. He indicated that the U.S. Is responding with investments in Peruvian infrastructure, specifically a planned upgrade to the Callao port. “We are going to increase the employ of the port,” Navarro said, describing the investment as strategic to ensure Callao remains a viable port for the future.
When asked if Callao is intended to serve as a counterweight to Chancay, Navarro stated that U.S. Investment extends beyond Callao, including ports in Paita and Matarani, to ensure a positive future for both countries. The U.S. Has also invested in Paita, which has ties to ports in California.
The U.S. Recently approved a $1.5 billion investment for the modernization of the Callao Naval Base, a project Navarro clarified will be funded by Peru with U.S. Technical expertise. This move underscores the deepening security cooperation between the two nations.
Navarro also addressed potential arms sales, noting that while no final decision has been made regarding F-16 fighter jets, they remain a strong option for Peru. He mentioned a recent discussion with Peruvian President José Jerí on the matter, but declined to elaborate on specifics.
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Regarding trade tariffs, Navarro stated that the existing U.S.-Peru Free Trade Agreement remains in effect and has tripled trade between the two countries since its implementation. He noted that 100 agricultural products are already tariff-free, and discussions are ongoing to potentially expand that list. The ambassador emphasized that tariffs are a tool used by President Trump to address trade imbalances, and that Peru is not a target.
The ambassador also highlighted the importance of stability in Peru, suggesting that President Jerí should remain in office to ensure a smooth investment climate. “To bring U.S. Investment, stability is extremely important,” Navarro said. He added that President Trump may weigh in on Peruvian politics if he chooses to do so.
Navarro also addressed concerns about potential limitations on $16 billion in investment projects, stating that the U.S. Prefers to work directly with Peru’s ProInversión to ensure a level playing field for American companies. He stressed the importance of transparency and a strong legal framework to attract U.S. Investment.
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Navarro Believes Jerí Should Remain President
Regarding the possibility of a vote of no confidence or impeachment proceedings against President Jerí, Navarro stated that the U.S. Would not interfere in Peru’s internal political affairs. However, he expressed his belief that stability is crucial for Peru’s development and attracting foreign investment.
“For the stability of the country, I think the tone should be lowered, ensuring dignified elections and that the president remains in office,” Navarro said. “Frequently changing presidents, in the eyes not only of the U.S. But of the world, is not normal.”
When pressed on accusations from China that the U.S. Was spreading misinformation regarding the Chancay port, Navarro dismissed the claims as “a fallacy,” pointing to the recent judicial decision as a dangerous precedent for Peru.
