History of Argentina–Peru relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 30, 2024

Argentina and Peru have maintained diplomatic relations for over two centuries, commencing officially on July 10, 1822. Both South American nations share membership in numerous multilateral organizations, reflecting their commitment to regional and global cooperation. These include the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, Group of 77, Organization of American States, Organization of Ibero-American States, and the United Nations.

1942: Rio Protocol

The Rio Protocol, signed in 1942, aimed to end the Ecuadorian–Peruvian War. Argentina, alongside Chile, Brazil, and the United States, served as guarantors of this agreement.

1991: Beginning of Menem's illegal arms sales

Between 1991 and 1995, Argentina's President Carlos Menem signed secret decrees authorizing illegal arms sales, some of which ended up in Ecuador during the Cenepa War.

1995: End of Menem's illegal arms sales

By 1995, Argentina had sold a significant amount of weaponry, including rifles, cannons, and ammunition, under the Menem administration, some of which were illegally diverted to countries engaged in conflicts, such as Ecuador.

1995: Cenepa War

The Cenepa War, a short conflict between Peru and Ecuador over a territorial dispute, took place in 1995. Argentina, alongside Chile, Brazil, and the United States, acted as guarantors of the 1942 Rio Protocol and helped in mediating a ceasefire and return to the status quo.

2001: Menem acquitted, but case later reopened

Carlos Menem faced trial in 2001 for his alleged role in the illegal arms sales but was acquitted by Argentina's Supreme Court. However, the case was reopened in October 2008.

March 21, 2005: General Bayas reveals Argentina's arms sale to Ecuador

On March 21, 2005, General Víctor Manuel Bayas, former Chief of Staff of the Ecuadorian Armed Forces, revealed in an interview with El Comercio that Argentina, along with Chile and Russia, had sold weapons to Ecuador during the Cenepa War in 1995.

October 2008: Menem's illegal arms sale case reopened

In October 2008, the case regarding former Argentine President Carlos Menem's involvement in illegal arms sales, including those made to Ecuador during the 1990s, was reopened.

2010: Menem's senatorial term ends

Carlos Menem was able to avoid detention by Argentine authorities until 2010 due to his position as senator of La Rioja. He claimed innocence and alleged political persecution by the then-Argentine President Cristina Fernández and her husband, former President Néstor Kirchner.