Bolivia and Peru relaunch bilateral ties with focus on border integration

Bolivia and Peru have officially relaunched their bilateral relationship with a renewed focus on integration and development along their shared border. The foreign ministers of both nations met in Desaguadero to set a new course for cooperation.

Héctor Francisco Huanca Gutiérrez of Bolivia and Carlos Espá of Peru convened to advance initiatives in border integration, trade facilitation, personal mobility, consular cooperation, and the sustainable management of shared water resources. This meeting signals a commitment to moving beyond mere discussion towards concrete action.

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We have not come solely to talk about integration. We have come to advance in it.

Several key agreements were reached, outlined in a Joint Declaration. These include progress toward the permanent 24/7 operation of the Desaguadero border crossing (CEBAF Desaguadero) and the full implementation of the San Lorenzo–Extrema border passage. Additionally, both countries will enhance the electronic exchange of phytosanitary certificates between their respective agricultural health agencies (SENASAG and SENASA) and strengthen the Binational Authority of Lake Titicaca, Desaguadero River, Lake Poopó, and Salar de Coipasa (ALT).

Both ministers underscored the significance of holding the Presidential Meeting and the VII Binational Cabinet Meeting between Bolivia and Peru within the current year. "We have not come solely to talk about integration. We have come to advance in it," stated Minister Huanca. He concluded with a powerful vision for the border: "Let this border not be perceived as the place where our countries end. Let it be the place where our integration begins."

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Let this border not be perceived as the place where our countries end. Let it be the place where our integration begins.