Fujimori government hopes pope's visit will inspire reconciliation in Peru

Peru's new government, led by Keiko Fujimori, expressed hope that the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV will be a catalyst for national reconciliation. The pontiff, who has Peruvian nationality, is scheduled to tour the country from November 11 to 17, visiting Lima, Chiclayo, Cuzco, and Pucallpa.

Foreign Minister Carlos Espá stated that the visit represents the "immense yearning" of the Peruvian people for reconciliation. Peru has endured a decade of political turmoil, with many of Fujimori's predecessors being removed from office or resigning amid congressional disputes. Fujimori herself has called for dialogue with political opponents, as her party lacks a majority in parliament.

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This visit will represent (...) the immense yearning that the Peruvian people have for reconciliation.

Espá described the Pope's presence as a "balsam" that could foster a "great manifestation of unity." This will be the first papal visit to Peru since 2018. The government is also preparing contingency plans for the visit, which coincides with the El Niño climate phenomenon, expected to bring heavy rains and river overflows.

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We await him with open hearts to welcome him back home, to Peru.