During a diplomatic visit to Peru, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions regarding the growing presence of Chinese-backed infrastructure projects in the region, specifically focusing on the strategic Chancay megaport. Rubio’s visit included a meeting with President Keiko Fujimori, where the two leaders discussed security cooperation, including Peru's commitment to join the 'Shield of the Americas,' a U.S.-led initiative aimed at combating organized crime.

In response to Rubio’s comments regarding Beijing’s footprint in the country, the Chinese embassy in Lima issued a rebuttal. The embassy defended the legitimacy and economic value of Chinese investments in Peru. Furthermore, the Chinese diplomatic mission pivoted the conversation toward U.S. policies, criticizing Washington’s strict visa regulations. While the U.S. frames the Chancay port as a potential security or geopolitical concern, China maintains that its involvement is strictly commercial and beneficial to the local economy. The disagreement highlights the ongoing competition between the U.S. and China for economic and diplomatic influence in Latin America.