"Peru shines at APEC 2023 and positions itself as a key player in the South Pacific."

Peru has demonstrated its organizational and diplomatic capacity by successfully concluding its role as host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum. This event, held in Lima, brought together leaders from some of the world's most influential economies, including Xi Jinping from China and Joe Biden from the United States. The summit, which has taken place three times previously in the country, marks a milestone in Peru's integration into the Asia-Pacific bloc, highlighting its relevance on the international stage.

One of the highlights of the summit was the inauguration of the Chancay megaport, located 80 kilometers from Lima. This ambitious project, a joint investment by China and Peru that began in 2007, represents a total cost exceeding 2.2 billion dollars in its initial phase. Experts believe that this modern port will not only transform trade in the region but could also have a significant impact on neighboring economies such as Chile.

International analysts have noted that Peru projected itself as a "sought-after partner" during the summit, with both giants, China and the United States, competing to strengthen ties with the Andean country. The United States, in particular, showed renewed interest in bolstering its relationship with Peru, gifting nine helicopters and announcing plans to establish NASA bases in the country. The Under Secretary of State for the Western Hemisphere, Brian Nichols, emphasized the U.S. commitment to closer cooperation in the coming years.

The Spanish newspaper El País reported that China seeks to strengthen its presence in Latin America, consolidating Peru as the main port hub of the South Pacific. This was evident in an unofficial meeting between Xi Jinping and Joe Biden shortly before both leaders left Lima, a meeting that symbolizes Peru's growing geopolitical importance.

At the closing of the event, President Dina Boluarte celebrated the positive impact the summit had on the country's international image and the strengthening of its foreign policy. Boluarte mentioned that the leaders of the 21 APEC economies praised Peruvian hospitality and the impeccable organization of the event, reinforcing Peru's reputation as an effective host in international forums.

During the summit, important trade agreements were signed, highlighting a free trade treaty with Hong Kong and a protocol to optimize the existing treaty with China. Boluarte emphasized that Peru introduced the need to formalize the informal economy into the APEC agenda, proposing three thematic priorities for the future: inclusive trade and investment, innovation and digitalization, and sustainable growth.

At the conclusion of the event, the ministers of the 21 economies issued a joint statement proposing a path towards economic growth based on the slogan "Empower. Include. Grow." This statement reflects the commitment of member countries to address the real needs of their peoples, reaffirming the importance of joint work in the region.

The arrival of world leaders in Lima, despite the internal challenges facing Peru, has been interpreted as a significant achievement for Peruvian diplomacy. As analyst Ramiro Escobar commented, the presence of figures like Xi Jinping and Joe Biden highlights the effectiveness of Peru's strategy to attract these global leaders, as well as the interest of major corporations in the country.

However, some analysts warn of the need for caution in the relationship with China, given the growing dependence that Peru could develop towards this Asian giant. While the Chancay megaport represents a growth opportunity, it is crucial for Peru to formulate a balanced strategy that allows it to diversify its trade relations and not become excessively dependent on a single power.

Finally, the meeting between Boluarte and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, which took place at the end of the event, signals a desire to continue strengthening ties with other nations. With this, Peru not only reaffirms its position in APEC but also positions itself as a strategic bridge between Asia and South America, a role that could be key to its future development in the global context.