Twenty-six foreign citizens became Peruvians on Thursday during a naturalization ceremony at the National Superintendence of Migrations headquarters in Lima.
Superintendent Eduardo Sevilla administered the Oath of Allegiance to the 26 new Peruvians, who pledged loyalty to their new homeland and its Constitution. They also committed to working for the development of the country.
The event was the second citizenship ceremony to be held at the Migrations Superintendence. The first one took place earlier this month at recently-opened Sala de la Peruanidad ('Peruvianness' Hall).
New Peruvian citizens came from Colombia (5), Venezuela (4), Ecuador (3), Spain (2) and Italy (2). The remainder came from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, the United States, Canada, Egypt, France, the Netherlands, Romania and Russia.
Twenty-three of them are spouses of Peruvian citizens. Two were born outside Peru to Peruvian parents and one opted for dual citizenship.
As he granted the citizenship certificates, Sevilla told naturalized citizens he expects them to honor their commitment "to this country, which is now also your homeland."
"Peru is a wonderful, burgeoning country full of hospitable people who welcome you with open arms," he pointed out.
Spain-born volleyball player Patricia Aranda, who opted for dual citizenship, spoke on behalf of the foreign —and now also Peruvian— citizens.
Highly excited after signing the National Anthem for the first time, the athlete expressed her appreciation and committed to working for her new homeland.
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