Showing respect and attention to the visit of Pope Leo XIV to Peru is compatible with the responsibility of defending Peru’s interests on the international stage, asserted the Minister of Labor and Employment Promotion, Juan Sheput.
He made this statement in reference to the upcoming trip by the President of the Republic, Keiko Fujimori, to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum—a trip for which authorization will be debated by the Senate.
President Keiko Fujimori requested permission from the Senate to travel to the APEC summit and Japan from November 15 to 21.
Pope Leo XIV arrives in Peru today and will be officially welcomed by President Keiko Fujimori at the Government Palace, marking the beginning of his visit to Peruvian territory, which will continue until Monday, November 16.
Minister Sheput indicated that President Fujimori’s travel to the APEC forum is necessary because the administration cannot neglect the creation of jobs, the attraction of further investment, or the growth of Peruvian exports.
He highlighted that the economies comprising this forum are among the primary destinations for exports from Peru’s micro and small enterprises (MSEs).
In this regard, he emphasized that strengthening ties with these markets is vital for productive activity, business growth, and job creation.
Furthermore, he noted that the visit will help maximize the benefits of existing free trade agreements and promote the development of new trade deals.
He also underscored these opportunities within a context where Peruvian exports could approach $120 billion this year, according to projections released by reputable institutions.
“Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and unto God what is God’s,” the minister remarked, reiterating that the political, economic, and social obligations of the Head of State must be fulfilled in harmony with faith and respect for the spiritual dimension.
Consequently, the Minister of Labor defended the importance of the President’s participation in meetings with the country’s key partners, in order to advance—at the highest level—an economic agenda focused on Peru’s development. Furthermore, he emphasized that the president will participate in the opening ceremonies and accompany Pope Leo XIV during the first few days of his visit, before fulfilling her international commitments.
“The president will by no means neglect the attention our Pope deserves,” he stated.
In this regard, ahead of the parliamentary debate, Sheput expressed his hope that the Senate would recognize the significance of the trip and the value of the president’s direct engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Prime Minister of Japan, and other leaders with whom she is scheduled to meet.
“No one can represent us better than she can,” he stressed.
The minister urged that the authorization be evaluated in light of Peru’s interests and the opportunities this agenda presents for its workers and businesses.
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(END) NDP/CCR / MDV
Published: 11/11/2026