on Friday called for unity so as to achieve the goals in favor of the country.
"Unity builds strength, and as a Government we are always ready for consensus. This is not just about a Government effort, this is about the lives of just over 33 million Peruvians," Mr. Castillo said in his speech for the 25th anniversary of Chavin de Huantar Military Operation.
The Head of State highlighted the bravery and courage of the Armed Forces during the rescue operation, which —he stressed— prove that Peru does not give up or will never give up in the face of totally reprehensible acts.
"They gave us the best example of unity to achieve goals in favor of the country, these objectives that we must use right now to achieve a great concentration on the entire national stage, in civil society, at the Judiciary, the Congress of the Republic, and the Executive Branch itself," he expressed.
Likewise, the top official affirmed that if differences are put aside and the example of Chavin de Huantar is followed, successful results will be achieved for the nation.
"The Chavin de Huantar strategy and operation is a milestone which will remain in the memory of all Peruvians and future generations," he underlined.
Moreover, President Castillo expressed his administration's firm commitment to continue strengthening the Armed Forces which work not only for national security but also in different social actions.
"Dear fellow citizens, I must call for the broadest national unity, just as these battalions unite to fight insecurity and crime," he concluded.
Chavin de Huantar
On 17 December 1996, heavily armed terrorists —led by Nestor Cerpa Cartolini— entered the Japanese Ambassador's residence and took hostage around 600 guests attending a party in celebration of Emperor Akihito's birthday.
More than four months after the beginning of the siege, on 22 April 1997, a team of 140 Peruvian commandos —assembled into a secret ad-hoc unit given the name Chavin de Huantar— mounted a raid on the place.
The first explosion occurred at 3:23 PM. This heralded the start of military operations at the Japanese diplomat's house.
At the end, all the 14 MRTA terrorists, one hostage (then-Supreme Court Justice Carlos Giusti), and two commandos (Juan Valer and Raul Jimenez) died during the assault.