Peruvian President Balcázar's Vatican Visit Draws Criticism Over Delegation

President José María Balcázar travelled to the Vatican, emphasizing Peru’s long‑standing diplomatic ties with the Holy See and announcing that Pope Francis would visit Peru later in the year. The trip was later scrutinised by Congressman Alex Paredes, who questioned why family members and other officials accompanied the president. Paredes said the presence of relatives “creates doubts about respect for institutional procedures” and warned that it sends a “bad message to citizens who would like to travel with such privileges.” He also asked how congresswoman Lady Camones joined the delegation, noting discrepancies between the documents submitted to Congress and the actual composition of the entourage. “Why send documents if they are going to act personally? It is a lack of respect for the Congress of the Republic,” he added.