A Strong Partnership Looking Toward the Future
The Embassy of Peru to the Kingdom of the Netherlands commemorated the 205th Anniversary of Peru’s Independence with a distinguished National Day reception in The Hague, bringing together a large gathering of ambassadors, heads of international organizations, judges from international courts, Dutch government representatives, business leaders, academics, members of civil society, and representatives of the Peruvian diaspora.
Guests were warmly welcomed by H.E. Franca Deza Ferreccio, Ambassador of Peru to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, together with the Peruvian Consul General, Mr. Sergio Manuel Avila Traverso. Upon arrival, attendees received the lyrics of the Peruvian National Anthem, allowing everyone to participate in the ceremonial opening of the evening.
A traditional Pisco Sour, Peru’s emblematic cocktail, set the tone for the celebration, followed by an elegant selection of canapés inspired by Peru’s internationally acclaimed gastronomy. The reception offered a refined yet relaxed atmosphere where guests exchanged views on the growing bilateral relationship between Peru and the Netherlands, as well as on the country’s recent democratic transition following the election of President-elect Keiko Fujimori, who assumes office on 28 July 2026.
In her National Day address, Ambassador Deza Ferreccio reflected on the significance of Peru’s democratic process. “This year Peru has undergone a particularly important democratic process with the holding of the General Elections in April and June. The new constitutionally elected President of Peru, democratically elected by the Peruvian people, Mrs. Keiko Fujimori, will assume office on 28 July 2026.”
The Ambassador emphasized the symbolic importance of celebrating Peru’s National Day in The Hague. “Celebrating our National Day in The Hague has a very special significance. This city, recognized as the Legal Capital of the World, symbolizes the principles of peace, justice, and the peaceful settlement of disputes, values that inspire Peruvian foreign policy. Our country maintains a firm commitment to international law, multilateralism, and the strengthening of international institutions as essential tools for addressing the global challenges of our time.”
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a strategic partner of Peru. Our diplomatic relations, founded on mutual respect, trust, and a long tradition of friendship, are currently experiencing a particularly dynamic period. We share common values and objectives, as well as the conviction that dialogue and cooperation constitute the best foundation for promoting the development and prosperity of our societies.”
Ambassador Deza Ferreccio pointed to several recent milestones that illustrate the growing depth of cooperation between both countries. Among them were the Sixth Political Consultations held in The Hague during the visit of Peru’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, which opened new avenues for political, economic, commercial, and technical cooperation.
Another landmark achievement was the signing of the Customs Cooperation Treaty between Peru and the Netherlands on 4 June 2026 in Lima. “This Treaty has undeniable strategic value because it will reinforce the trust that strengthens our economic and trade relationship, facilitating the safe and secure transit of goods, and consolidating the Netherlands as one of the main gateways for Peruvian products to the European market.”
She also underscored the strategic role of the Port of Rotterdam as Peru’s principal logistics gateway into Europe.
Promoting Peru’s image abroad remains another important objective of the Embassy. The Ambassador highlighted the successful participation of Peru’s renowned training ship B.A.P. Unión during SAIL Amsterdam 2025 and Sails Curaçao 2026, describing the vessel as “an itinerant Ambassador of Peru.” “Our training ship carried not only the excellence of the Peruvian Navy, but also the richness of our history, culture, and maritime vocation, bringing our country closer to thousands of visitors and reaffirming Peru’s commitment to dialogue and international cooperation.”
Beyond maritime diplomacy, the Embassy has continued to organize lectures, art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural activities that showcase Peru’s rich heritage to Dutch audiences.
The Ambassador also highlighted the expanding cooperation between Peru and the Netherlands in integrated water management, agricultural innovation, and sustainable trade, while expressing appreciation for Dutch support throughout Peru’s accession process to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
A particularly heartfelt moment came when Ambassador Deza Ferreccio paid tribute to the Peruvian community living throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands. “With their work, talent, and dedication, our compatriots enrich this society and project a positive image of Peru, becoming genuine ambassadors for our country and a human bridge that strengthens the ties between our two nations.”
Looking ahead, the Ambassador expressed confidence in the future of bilateral relations. “The progress achieved demonstrates that the relationship between Peru and the Netherlands is currently experiencing a period of excellence and dynamism. The high-level political dialogue, the strengthening of our cooperation mechanisms, the expansion of trade, and the closer relations of our societies allow us to look to the future with optimism.”
She concluded by thanking the Embassy team, the Consulate General, Peru’s Commercial Office, and all those who have contributed to strengthening Peru-Netherlands relations before inviting guests to celebrate the country’s national day with the traditional toast:
“Happy Independence Day, Peru! Viva el Perú! Cheers!”
