on Thursday called on Congress to set aside old political disputes and grant the legislative powers requested by the Government to defeat crime, appealing to the example of patriotism, honor, and sense of duty set by Grand Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario.
"Will we be able to lower our party flags to raise the white flag of peace that all Peruvians demand from us? Can we set aside old political disputes to prioritize a present and future of security and peace for our people? I sincerely trust that Grau's example will prevail in Congress over confrontation and resentment," Fujimori noted.
Remarks were made during the civic-patriotic ceremony marking the 205th anniversary of the establishment of the Peruvian Navy and the 147th anniversary of the Battle of Angamos.
In this context, the Head of State addressed those responsible for responding to the Executive Branch's request for legislative powers to combat crime.
"Unlike Grau, we are not living through an external war that forces us to go to a battlefield, but there is another war that is killing Peruvians, and that is why I am addressing those responsible for granting Peru the fundamental powers needed to defeat crime," Fujimori stated.
The top official said the legacy of the hero of Angamos should prompt reflection on the responsibility to put national interests ahead of political differences, especially in light of the challenges the country currently faces.
"On occasions as important as these, it is essential to highlight their significance and project that meaning into the present day. Grau's commitment to Peru is our best example and should lead us to genuine and profound reflection. What are we willing to do for Peru? To place it above our own interests and our own lives," Fujimori reflected.
Legacy of Miguel Grau
During her speech, President Fujimori paid tribute to the Gentleman of the Seas.
Similarly, she emphasized that his example remains relevant because of the values he demonstrated during the 1879 naval campaign.
"Admiral Grau was not only an extraordinary sailor; he was also a man of honor, principles, and profound love for Peru," Fujimori stated.
"His greatness was manifested not only on the battlefield, but also in his conduct, his respect for life, and his chivalry, even toward the adversary," she noted.
The Head of State recalled the lesson taught by Miguel Grau and the Huascar monitor crew during the battle on October 8, 1879.
"There are times when duty requires us to put the interests of the homeland above our own interests. And that is precisely what is exalted: honor, sacrifice, and commitment to Peru," she underscored.
The top official underlined that the Grand Admiral's lessons transcend generations and serve as a guide for assuming the responsibilities demanded by the nation.
"His legacy reminds us that true courage consists not only in facing danger, but in doing so with dignity, responsibility, and a profound sense of duty," Fujimori said.
In this regard, she stressed the importance of coordinated work among institutions to address major national challenges by sharing capabilities, knowledge, and experience, as well as a common vision for the country.
Tribute to the Peruvian Navy
At another point, the President highlighted the strategic importance of the Peruvian sea for national development and the role played by the naval institution in strengthening Peru's scientific and technological capabilities.
"The Peruvian sea represents a strategic space for national development. Therefore, looking toward the future also means looking toward the sea," Fujimori said.
"Peru needs to start working today to build a country that makes responsible use of its resources, strengthens its scientific and technological capabilities, and has institutions that are increasingly better prepared to face future challenges, as the Peruvian Navy does," she pointed out.
Likewise, the Head of State recognized the men and women who make up this institution, as well as those who devoted their lives to serving the nation.
"The Peruvian Navy has always been a beacon of commitment, honor, and dedication for all of us," Fujimori highlighted.
"The country recognizes all the men and women who make up our Navy, those who wear the uniform today, and those who throughout our history devoted their lives to serving the nation," she indicated.
At the end of her remarks, the President called for keeping alive the values embodied by Miguel Grau and passing them on to new generations.
"May Miguel Grau's example continue to light the way for new generations. May his conduct remind us that Peru needs men and women committed to service, honesty, justice, unity, and the common good," she said.
