Lima, Peru, November 15, 2024—President Joe Biden and Peruvian President Dina Ercilia Boluarte met during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Week in Lima, Peru. Their 50-minute discussion covered topics central to bilateral and regional priorities.
President Biden commended Peru on its role as the APEC host. The conversation included security, counternarcotics efforts, trade, economic investment, and advancements in space collaboration. The United States announced a $65 million security assistance package for Peru, which includes the transfer of nine Black Hawk helicopters over five years. This initiative aims to strengthen Peru’s counternarcotics operations. Biden acknowledged Peru’s decision to share radar information with the U.S. after a decade, a move that enhances cooperation on anti-narcotics strategies.
Economic collaboration featured prominently. Biden discussed a donation from California’s Caltrain of over 100 locomotives to Lima, an effort to promote cleaner transportation. This act reflects shared goals in infrastructure development and environmental progress.
Space exploration emerged as a growing partnership. Peru’s National Commission for Aerospace Research and Development (CONIDA) and NASA recently signed an agreement to develop a program for launching scientific sounding rockets from Punta Lobos. Peru’s recent accession to the Artemis Accords, becoming the 41st signatory, further aligns the nation with global efforts in peaceful and responsible space exploration. This cooperation opens doors for joint initiatives in aerospace innovation.
The leaders addressed the crisis in Venezuela, with Biden expressing gratitude for Peru’s advocacy at the Organization of American States and the United Nations. Peru’s support for democratic governance in the region reflects shared values in addressing challenges across Latin America.
Both presidents recognized the strategic ties between their nations, particularly in investment and technology. They reaffirmed their commitment to advancing mutual interests and maintaining open communication for progress on shared objectives.
