Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela met with Chinese Ambassador to Peru, Song Yan, this Monday amidst growing controversy surrounding the state oversight of the Chancay port, which is primarily funded by Chinese investments and has faced scrutiny from the United States. The meeting coincided with the celebration of the Chinese New Year, during which De Zela expressed his best wishes to the Chinese people and government. This goodwill gesture was part of a broader discussion that touched upon the dynamic nature of commercial exchange and ongoing cooperation between the two nations.

The meeting comes in the wake of a judicial decision last week that has sparked significant debate in Peru. A judge ruled to exclude the Chancay port from regulation by the Supervisory Agency for Investment in Transport Infrastructure (Ositrán) beyond tariff oversight, after granting a protective measure requested by the operating company. This ruling has raised alarms regarding the sovereignty and control of the port, particularly given its major Chinese ownership and the concerns raised by the U.S. government about potential security implications.

As the situation develops, the implications for Peru’s foreign policy and its relationships with both China and the United States are significant. The Chancay port is seen as a key project in enhancing trade connections within the Asia-Pacific, but the ongoing controversy highlights the delicate balance that Peru must maintain between attracting foreign investment and addressing national security concerns. The discussions between De Zela and Song Yan may influence future investments and the overall trajectory of Sino-Peruvian relations.