Police officers stand outside the Embassy of Peru in Mexico City, a day after Peru's President Dina Boluarte announced the return of the country's ambassador to Mexico, in Mexico City, Mexico, February 25, 2023. REUTERS/Luis Cortes/File Photo
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Friday his government does not want to have commercial or economic ties with Peru as long as his counterpart Dina Boluarte remains in power, as he considers her a "usurper" of the presidency.
Peruvian lawmakers on Thursday declared Lopez Obrador 'persona non grata' in the country, citing what they described as his meddling in Peru's internal affairs after the ousting of former president Pedro Castillo.
The Mexican leader has repeatedly backed leftist Castillo since he was ousted, sparking tension with Peru's government.
Lopez Obrador added Friday he does not want to hand over the rotating presidency of the Pacific Alliance trade bloc to Peru, but is willing to give it to Chile.
"I will not give it to the lady who is usurping the presidency," he said.
Peru also classified Colombian leader Gustavo Petro "persona non grata" in February for similar criticisms of Boluarte.
(Reporting by Valentine Hilaire; Editing by Isabel Woodford)
