The diplomatic rift between Peru and Mexico has deepened after the Peruvian Congress officially declared Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, persona non grata, a move that signals she is no longer welcome in the country.

The decision comes after Mexico granted political asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, a close ally of ousted President Pedro Castillo. Peru described the act as “unfriendly” and “an unacceptable interference” in its domestic affairs.

The roots of this diplomatic fallout trace back to December 2022, when Castillo, a left-leaning former teacher, was removed from power after attempting to dissolve Congress  an act widely viewed as a coup attempt. Following his arrest, Chávez faced similar charges of rebellion and abuse of authority.

While Castillo remains behind bars awaiting trial, Chávez, who was out on bail, fled to the Mexican embassy in Lima seeking refuge. In line with its humanitarian policy, Mexico granted her asylum, citing the 1954 Caracas Convention, an international agreement that allows such protection.

However, Peru’s Congress saw things differently. In a 63–33 vote, lawmakers moved to declare Sheinbaum unwelcome, accusing her of directly meddling in the nation’s internal politics. 

Acting Congress President Fernando Rospigliosi insisted that Mexico’s move went “beyond words,” accusing Sheinbaum of active interference.

In response, Mexico’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the claims as baseless, maintaining that the asylum was granted legally and in good faith. The ministry also urged Peru to issue a safe passage document for Chávez to travel safely to Mexico.

Meanwhile, opposition voices in Peru have criticized the decision. Socialist lawmaker Jaime Quito condemned the declaration as “an embarrassment,” arguing that it damages relations with a “sister nation” unnecessarily.

The latest move pushes the already tense relationship between Lima and Mexico to its lowest point in years, highlighting the growing political polarization across Latin America.