Peru, Qatar: Enhancing diplomatic relations for mutual prosperity

In today’s world, where global challenges are ever-present, strengthening bilateral relations is vital for achieving shared sustainable development. As I look ahead to our growing ties, I am inspired by the potential of the relationship between Peru and Qatar. Over time, this bilateral relationship has flourished, opening promising avenues for economic co-operation — driven by our shared commitment to global integration and enriched by our cultural bonds.

Strategically located on the Pacific coast of South America, Peru offers an exceptional gateway to both regional and global markets. With a population of over 34mn and an area of 1.28mn sq km, the country recorded solid economic performance in 2024, with GDP growth of 3.3%, inflation of 1.97% and exports of US$74.66bn. Backed by more than three decades of sound economic policies, Peru offers a stable, investor-friendly environment, supported by a robust legal framework that guarantees equal treatment for foreign investors and compliance with international protection mechanisms such as ICSID and MIGA. The country’s trade-led growth is further strengthened by more than 20 Free Trade Agreements and 32 Bilateral Investment Treaties, which provide preferential access to markets that account for 87% of its exports.

As a major logistics hub in Latin America, Peru plays a critical role in facilitating international trade through its advanced port infrastructure. Ranked 37th in the Maritime Connectivity Index (LSCI) in 2024, the country is the third most connected nation in South America. The Port of Callao, one of the largest on the Pacific coast of South America and the main export gateway for Peruvian goods, continues to expand its operational capacity. In addition, the inauguration of the Port of Chancay in November 2024 is expected to improve trade corridors and further integrate Peru into global supply chains. These advantages position Peru as an ideal gateway for Qatari investment and trade expansion in our region.

Bilateral relations between Peru and Qatar began in 1989 with the establishment of diplomatic relations. Since then, bilateral relations have expanded. Milestones include the opening of the Qatari embassy in Lima in 2011 and the Peruvian embassy in Doha in 2012. These institutional steps, along with the implementation of political consultation mechanisms, have facilitated dialogue and strengthened economic and political co-operation, paving the way for negotiations and new agreements, such as the project for a Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments Agreement and the project for an Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement. As a result, both countries can explore opportunities for collaboration in infrastructure, mining and renewable energy.

Qatar stands as an important partner for Peru across multiple dimensions. As one of the world’s leading energy producers and a global hub for financial and technological innovation, Qatar presents substantial opportunities for investment, knowledge sharing, and joint economic initiatives. Notably, the Qatari national development plan, “Qatar National Vision 2030”, which focuses on sustainable development, aligns with Peru’s own development objectives. This convergence creates a favourable setting for bilateral initiatives in key areas of mutual interest.

This context highlights the clear complementarity between the two economies. Peru exports high-quality agricultural products with high nutritional value, such as fresh fruit and quinoa, while Qatar supplies industrial chemicals. Expanding this dynamic opens up promising avenues in agriculture, logistics, energy, mining and industrial investment, areas that can foster sustainable and mutually beneficial growth.

Peru offers a wide range of cross-sector investment opportunities. Notable projects include the El Galeno project in mining; the Southern Integrated Gas Transportation System (SITGAS) in energy and hydrocarbons; and opportunities in wind, solar, biomass and geothermal energy through private sector initiatives. Infrastructure projects such as the Chimbote International Terminal and desalination plants in Lambayeque, Paita and Talara are also important for sustainable development. These large-scale initiatives offer promising prospects for Qatari investors, contributing to Peru’s economic transformation while ensuring sustainable and profitable investments.

The Peru–Qatar relationship is becoming increasingly strong and multidimensional, driven by economic complementarity, shared development goals, and a firm commitment to international co-operation. As both nations deepen ties, Peru warmly invites Qatari investors, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers to discover the vast potential this dynamic relationship holds. Together, Peru and Qatar are well positioned to open new economic frontiers and shape a future of shared progress and lasting prosperity.

I am convinced that my visit will contribute to strengthening ties with the State of Qatar, promoting deeper co-operation across key sectors, and reaffirming our shared commitment to advancing a stronger and more dynamic relationship.