Chef Santiago shared how authentic Peruvian cuisine reflects the country’s multicultural heritage, highlighting traditional dishes and ingredients served during Peru’s National Day celebration in Singapore

Peruvian chef Santiago shared the stories behind the country’s traditional cuisine during Peru’s National Day celebration in Singapore, where he prepared a selection of signature dishes representing Peru’s diverse culinary heritage. Through the menu, he introduced guests to authentic flavours shaped by centuries of cultural exchange while emphasising the importance of preserving traditional recipes.

Originally from Lima, Peru, Chef Santiago has been living in Bangkok and began his professional culinary journey after studying at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School. Having spent most of his life in Peru before relocating abroad in 2016, he said his upbringing in Lima provided the foundation for his understanding of the country’s rich gastronomic traditions.

Speaking about the uniqueness of Peruvian cuisine, Chef Santiago explained that Peru’s food culture has evolved through the influence of indigenous traditions alongside Spanish, Italian, French, Arab, Chinese and Japanese communities. He noted that this blend of cultures has produced distinctive flavours characterised by depth and complexity while maintaining Peru’s own culinary identity.

For the National Day dinner, Chef Santiago prepared several of Peru’s most recognisable dishes, including ceviche de pescado, quinua salad, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina. He said these dishes were selected because they are widely regarded as representative of Peruvian cuisine and remain favourites among Peruvians, Latin Americans and international visitors who have experienced the country’s food.

He also highlighted several ingredients that are essential for achieving authentic Peruvian flavours, including ají amarillo, huacatay, and choclo, the large Andean corn native to Peru. According to Chef Santiago, these ingredients form the foundation of many traditional recipes and help preserve the distinctive character of Peruvian cooking.

Comparing Peruvian and Asian cuisines, Chef Santiago observed that while Peru’s culinary foundation is largely influenced by European traditions, it also incorporates significant Chinese Cantonese and Japanese influences. At the same time, he noted that Peru’s indigenous mountain cuisine has remained largely unchanged and continues to reflect the country’s original culinary heritage.

Chef Santiago said he chose not to modify the recipes to suit regional tastes, explaining that his objective was to present the dishes in their most authentic and traditional form. He added that Asian diners have responded particularly well to dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado, demonstrating a strong appreciation for Peruvian cuisine.

He also pointed out that Peru and Asia share a number of common ingredients, illustrating the culinary connections that exist between the two regions despite their distinct food traditions.

Reflecting on the role of food in cultural exchange, Chef Santiago said cuisine serves as a universal way of bringing people together. Through authentic Peruvian dishes, he hoped diners in Singapore would gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s culture, history and identity while experiencing the country’s longstanding culinary traditions.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter.

The Embassy of Peru in Singapore hosted a reception celebrating Peru’s 205th Independence Anniversary and the enduring bilateral relationship with Singapore.

The Embassy of Peru in Singapore hosted a reception on 22 July 2026 to commemorate the 205th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Peru and 46 years of diplomatic relations between Peru and Singapore. Hosted by H.E. Fernando Quiros, Ambassador of Peru to the Republic of Singapore, the celebration welcomed representatives from the diplomatic corps, government agencies, the business community, and other distinguished guests in recognition of the longstanding ties between Peru and Singapore.

Held as part of Peru’s official National Day celebrations in Singapore, the reception featured official addresses, the national anthems of Peru and Singapore, a cultural presentation, and a reception showcasing Peruvian cuisine and culture. The event also served as a platform for diplomatic engagement among representatives from the public and private sectors, foreign missions, and members of the international community.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter.

Speaking as the Guest of Honour, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry Gan Siow Huang congratulated Peru on its 205th Independence Anniversary and welcomed Ambassador Fernando Quiros, who was hosting Peru’s National Day reception in Singapore for the first time since assuming his appointment.

Reflecting on Peru’s heritage, Minister Gan described the country as one shaped by “a rich history, vibrant culture, remarkable biodiversity and deep connections to the world.” She noted that Peru continues to strengthen free trade, promote sustainable development, and support multilateralism and the rules-based international order through its engagement with partners around the world.

Speaking as the Guest of Honour, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry Gan Siow Huang congratulated Peru on its 205th Independence Anniversary and welcomed Ambassador Fernando Quiros on hosting his first National Day reception in Singapore. She highlighted Peru’s rich history and cultural heritage, noting that the country continues to promote free trade, sustainable development, and multilateral cooperation with partners around the world.

Minister Gan also noted that this year marked 46 years of diplomatic relations between Peru and Singapore, highlighting continued cooperation in trade, political engagement, and people-to-people exchanges. She said both countries would continue strengthening economic ties through frameworks such as the CPTPP, PSFTA, and Peru’s impending accession to the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA), while also highlighting collaboration on carbon credits and growing cultural exchanges.

In his address, Ambassador Fernando Quiros thanked guests for joining the celebration and expressed appreciation for the warm welcome he and his wife had received since arriving in Singapore. He highlighted Peru’s rich history, cultural diversity, natural resources, and commitment to strengthening partnerships across the Asia-Pacific.

The Ambassador also underscored the growing bilateral relationship, highlighting cooperation in trade, digital economy, sustainability, and investment, while pointing to opportunities for greater business collaboration. “Peru aspires to become a logistic, industrial and technological hub on South America’s central coast, and Singapore could be one of our preferred partners to that end,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Quiros emphasised that although Peru and Singapore are geographically distant, the Pacific Ocean serves as “a natural bridge” connecting both nations through shared values, aspirations, and cooperation. The reception concluded with a cultural showcase and networking session, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties as they approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2030.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter.

Envoys reaffirm commitment to expanding Indonesia–Peru cooperation.

Indonesia’s Ambassador to Singapore, H.E. Hotmangaradja Pandjaitan, welcomed his Peruvian counterpart, H.E. Fernando Quiros, for a courtesy call on 10 July 2026.

The meeting offered an opportunity to review the progress of Indonesia–Peru bilateral relations and reaffirm both countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation across a range of sectors.

During the discussion, the ambassadors exchanged views on expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest and underscored the importance of continued diplomatic engagement in advancing shared priorities. The meeting reflected the positive momentum in Indonesia–Peru relations and both countries’ commitment to deepening their partnership.

The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Singapore welcomed the exchange and expressed confidence that continued dialogue and cooperation will further strengthen the mutually beneficial relationship between Indonesia and Peru.

Source: Indonesian Embassy in Singapore

Teatro La Plaza’s acclaimed production of “Hamlet,” featuring actors with Down syndrome, captivated audiences during a three-day run at the Singapore International Festival of Arts 2026.

Singapore, May 2026 – The Embassy of Peru in Singapore has celebrated the successful presentation of Peru’s internationally acclaimed theatre company, Teatro La Plaza, at the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) 2026.

The celebrated production, “Hamlet,” was staged at the Drama Centre Theatre on 21, 22 and 23 May 2026, drawing audiences with its innovative and deeply emotional interpretation of William Shakespeare’s classic work.

Supported by the Embassy of Peru and presented in collaboration with Arts House Group, the production featured a talented cast of actors with Down syndrome who combined Shakespeare’s original text with their own personal stories and experiences. The result was a powerful exploration of identity, inclusion and the meaning of existence, offering audiences a fresh perspective on one of literature’s most famous plays.

Before arriving in Singapore, the production had already gained international recognition through performances at some of the world’s leading cultural venues. The tour included appearances at the Paris Autumn Festival in 2023, the Edinburgh International Festival in 2024, London’s Barbican Centre in 2025, and the Polonsky Shakespeare Center in New York City in 2026.

The production also received strong reviews from Singapore’s media, earning praise from both The Straits Times and The Business Times for its artistic excellence and emotional impact.

As part of the festival’s activities, Arts House Group hosted a special reception on 22 May attended by senior leaders, including Chairman Professor Arnoud De Meyer, SIFA Festival Director Chong Tze Chien, and Executive Director Sharon Tan. Peru’s Ambassador to Singapore, HE Fernando Quirós, also attended the event and joined festival representatives for the evening performance.

The evening concluded with an engaging post-show discussion that allowed audience members to interact directly with Teatro La Plaza’s artists, providing insight into the creative process behind the production and its message of inclusion and empowerment.

The Embassy of Peru expressed its gratitude to audiences in Singapore for supporting the event and celebrating a significant achievement for contemporary Peruvian performing arts on the international stage.

The successful staging of “Hamlet” at SIFA 2026 further strengthens cultural ties between Peru and Singapore while highlighting the global impact of inclusive and innovative theatre.

Source & Photos Credit: Embassy of Peru in Singapore

An official visit by Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo strengthens bilateral relations through trade, sustainability, and cooperation agreements.

Singapore, 14 August 2025 — Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, Elmer Schialer Salcedo, concluded an official visit to Singapore from 11 to 12 August 2025, at the invitation of Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. The visit marked the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Peru, underscoring the countries’ shared commitment to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors.

On 12 August, Minister Balakrishnan and Minister Schialer co-chaired the 3rd Singapore–Peru Consultations, where both sides reviewed the progress in bilateral relations. Minister Balakrishnan welcomed Peru’s ratification of the Pacific Alliance–Singapore Free Trade Agreement (PASFTA) in February 2023, which entered into force for Singapore, Chile, and Peru on 3 May 2025. He also commended Peru’s decision to exempt Singapore business travellers from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days, a move expected to boost commercial and people-to-people exchanges.

The Ministers witnessed the virtual signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation, aimed at enhancing institutional collaboration.

During his visit, Minister Schialer paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong. Both leaders reaffirmed the warm bilateral ties and highlighted shared commitments to free trade and multilateralism, as well as continued cooperation within the United Nations and regional platforms such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

Minister Schialer also met with Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations Grace Fu. Discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in agri-trade, ports and logistics, and sustainability. The Ministers also recognised the potential arising from the Implementation Agreement on carbon credits collaboration, signed in April 2025.

Minister Schialer departed Singapore on 12 August 2025, with both countries expressing optimism for expanding partnerships in trade, environmental cooperation, and capacity building.

Source: MFA

A celebration of heritage and creativity: Singaporean student honoured at Peruvian Embassy reception for her culturally inspired design.

SINGAPORE – 24 July 2025 – In a vibrant fusion of cultures, Siti Nur’Ramizah Binte Mohd Yusri, a 20-year-old student from ITE East College, was awarded first prize in the prestigious NETS FlashPay Card Design Competition 2025. Organised by the National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) Council in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Peru, the competition invited young designers across Singapore to craft card designs that bridge artistic expression with cultural symbolism.

The award was presented during a diplomatic reception held at the Royal Pavilion in Singapore, commemorating Peru’s 204th anniversary of independence and the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Peru and Singapore.

In an exclusive interview with IN Diplomacy Editor-in-Chief Ms. Nomita Dhar, Ramizah shared her artistic journey and inspiration behind her winning entry. Influenced by the vivid hues of Peruvian traditional wear and the familiar motifs of Singaporean batik, her design features a young girl donning a Peruvian chullo hat adorned with a batik pattern—an intentional nod to the cultural diversity shared by both countries.

“I was really awed and mesmerised by Peru’s colours, which reminded me of the batik I grew up with,” said Ramizah. “It was very meaningful to connect both cultures in one artwork. Receiving the award was such an honour, and I’m grateful for the encouragement from my Visual Arts CCA and class advisor, Ms Ang.”

Currently studying Bio-Chemical Technology, Ramizah expressed pride in representing ITE, known for its emphasis on hands-on learning. She also voiced her hope of one day visiting Peru with her family, having been inspired by its landscapes, traditional clothing, and, of course, its alpacas.

Siti Nur’Ramizah Binte Mohd Yusri’s Designs

The competition stands as a testament to the importance of cultural exchange, youth empowerment, and the arts in fostering international understanding.

The Peruvian Embassy in Singapore hosted a vibrant reception to commemorate Peru’s independence and 45 years of Peru-Singapore diplomatic relations.

Singapore, 23 July 2025 – The Embassy of the Republic of Peru in Singapore held a reception at the Royal Pavilion to mark the 204th anniversary of Peru’s Declaration of Independence. The event also commemorated the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Peru and Singapore.

The evening was hosted by His Excellency Francisco Tenya Hasegawa, Ambassador of Peru to Singapore, with Senior Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr Desmond Tan, as the guest of honour. Attendees included members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders, and friends of Peru.

The programme featured a ceremonial wine toast, the singing of the national anthem, traditional Peruvian dance performances, an exhibition of Peruvian art, and a showcase of Peruvian cuisine. Guests were also treated to a cultural immersion reflecting Peru’s rich heritage and growing bilateral relationship with Singapore.

A highlight of the evening was the awarding of the winners of the NETS FlashPay Card Design Competition 2025, held in conjunction with the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. The competition, organised by the National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) Council in partnership with the Peruvian Embassy, invited students from design schools across Singapore to submit entries. First prize was awarded to Siti Nur’Ramizah Binte Mohd Yusri.

In his speech, Ambassador Tenya reflected on the historic and strategic significance of Peru’s presence in Asia, highlighting Peru’s consistent foreign policy goals, including its aspirations and active role in APEC. He pointed to key milestones such as Peru’s ratification of the Pacific Alliance-Singapore Free Trade Agreement and a recent landmark carbon credit cooperation agreement with Singapore — the first of its kind signed by a Latin American nation.

“Peru and Singapore have taken concrete steps to strengthen bilateral ties,” said Ambassador Tenya. “Last year, we welcomed Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to Peru, the first official visit of a Singaporean Prime Minister to Latin America. Our collaboration in trade, port logistics, food innovation, and climate sustainability continues to grow stronger.”

Mr Desmond Tan, in his remarks, underscored the close and evolving relationship between the two countries. “Peru is Singapore’s 9th largest trading partner in Latin America, and our shared commitment to multilateralism and sustainable development continues to guide our cooperation,” he noted. He also expressed Singapore’s anticipation of an upcoming visit by the Peruvian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Singapore.

Cultural diplomacy remains a pillar of bilateral ties, with growing interest among citizens in both nations in discovering each other’s cultures and histories. Singapore-based Peruvian coffee brands and agricultural exports, such as blueberries, have become increasingly visible in local markets.

The evening concluded with photo opportunities and an appreciation of the Peruvian gastronomic experience, further reinforcing the warm and multifaceted relationship between Peru and Singapore.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters

The Embassy of Peru marks Singapore’s 60th National Day with a message of friendship, highlighting 45 years of growing bilateral ties in trade, sustainability, and people-to-people connections.

Singapore — On the occasion of Singapore’s 60th National Day, the Embassy of Peru extends its warmest congratulations to the Government and people of Singapore. We join in celebrating six decades of extraordinary progress, innovation, and leadership that have made Singapore a global reference in development, sustainability, and good governance.

This year also marks a significant milestone in Peru-Singapore relations, as we commemorate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between our two nations. Over the past four and a half decades, our bilateral relationship has deepened steadily, grounded in mutual respect, shared interests, and a growing commitment to economic and environmental cooperation.

Singapore is a key partner for Peru in Southeast Asia and beyond. In recent years, the two countries have strengthened collaboration through a range of strategic platforms. Peru was the first country in the Americas to sign the Implementation Agreement on carbon credit cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement—an important step that reflects our shared commitment to climate action and market-based environmental solutions.

Moreover, Peru proudly became the first Pacific Alliance member to ratify the Pacific Alliance Singapore Free Trade Agreement (PASFTA). This first ratification reaffirmed Peru´s strong will with Singapore and support for its closer integration with Latin America. Our belief is in the immense potential for cross-Pacific trade, investment, and innovation.

Geographical distance, once seen as a limitation, is increasingly becoming an opportunity. The new Chancay Megaport on Peru’s central coast is set to redefine maritime connectivity between South America and Asia. With a direct shipping route to East Asia, including Singapore, the port significantly reduces travel times and opens new logistics and trade corridors between our regions, where PSA Marine provides important port services. Singaporean companies are doing business with Peru, but new ones are exploring opportunities in this context, and we welcome greater participation from Singapore in this exciting new chapter of interregional connectivity.

Beyond trade and environmental cooperation, Peru and Singapore continue to foster deeper ties, from political dialogues to culinary festivals and art exhibitions, and people-to-people engagement remains at the heart of our bilateral friendship.

As we look toward the future, Peru reaffirms its strong commitment to expanding cooperation with Singapore. Once geographically distant, we are closely aligned in vision, values, and ambition. Together, we are building bridges that transcend oceans—towards a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous world.

Singapore and Peru celebrate the Pacific Alliance-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (PASFTA), enhancing bilateral trade and cooperation.

Singapore, 3 May 2025 – H.E. Francisco Tenya Hasegawa, Ambassador of Peru to Singapore, highlighted the strong and evolving relationship between Singapore and Peru under the newly enforced Pacific Alliance-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (PASFTA). Peru has taken pride in being the first nation to ratify this agreement with Singapore, further cementing ties between the two countries.

In his remarks, Ambassador Hasegawa stated, “Peru and Singapore are champions of free trade. Therefore, Peru welcomes Singapore as the new partner of the Pacific Alliance Free Trade Agreement – for Peru and Chile, marking a milestone that is no longer just a promising opportunity but a long-awaited reality.”

He further emphasised that these actions reflect Peru’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ties with Singapore, not only in trade but also in environmental and strategic areas. “We are also partners through the bilateral Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP),” he added.

Ambassador Hasegawa also reaffirmed Peru’s strong support for Singapore becoming the first Associated State of the Pacific Alliance. He noted that PASFTA’s alignment with Singapore’s strategic vision, as highlighted by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during the Rajaratnam Lecture on 16 April 2025, underscored the importance of strengthening global partnerships amid global challenges.

The PASFTA, now in force for Singapore, Chile, and Peru, is expected to significantly boost trade through the Chancay Megaport in Lima, a world-class facility capable of direct shipping routes to Asia. The ambassador pointed out that this port will reduce transit times for Peruvian exports, including agricultural products, superfoods, rare minerals, and metals, by 10 to 15 days.

“Only the four Pacific Alliance co-founder countries – Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru – represent 40% of the GDP of Latin America and the Caribbean, making them the world’s ninth-largest economy. With the anticipated PASFTA ratification by Colombia and Mexico, the benefits of this agreement will further extend across the member nations,” he concluded.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters

THE Embassy of Peru in Singapore is proud to announce the opening of the photo exhibition “Shipibo-Konibo: Portraits of My Blood,” featuring the works of the talented Peruvian photographer David Díaz. The exhibition will be held at the Central Public Library from 1st to 30th July 2024. It provides a unique glimpse into the lives, culture, and traditions of the Shipibo-Konibo community from the Peruvian Amazon

H.E. Francisco Tenya Hasegawa, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru to Singapore will launch the exhibition on the opening night. Shipibo-Konibo: Portraits of My Blood captures the intricate cultural heritage and vibrant daily life of the Shipibo-Konibo people. David Díaz’s striking black-and-white photography delves into the essence of their traditions, cosmovision, and resilience. The Shipibo-Konibo community is renowned for their kené designs, which are integral to their textiles and ceramics. These geometric patterns are a testament to their rich cultural identity and economic activity, gaining recognition both locally and internationally.

Highlights of the Exhibition include
• Cultural Heritage: The kené designs of the Shipibo-Konibo, declared a National Cultural Heritage in 2008, reflect their deep cosmovision and artistic prowess.
• Historical Context: The exhibition traces the resilience of the Shipibo-Konibo people, from their early complex societies to their interactions with Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries, and the impact of the rubber boom in the early 20th century.
• Modern Adaptations: The Shipibo-Konibo’s adaptability in forming urban settlements and maintaining strong ties to their ancestral lands is showcased, highlighting communities like Cantagallo in Lima and Pucallpa in the Amazonian region.
• Spiritual Practices: Insights into their cosmovision, which includes the use of ayahuasca for visionary journeys, emphasizing their deep connection to nature and holistic understanding of life.
• Engagement and Rights: The Shipibo-Konibo actively participate in consultation processes with the Peruvian government to safeguard their rights and influence decisions on environmental and developmental projects.

Dates: 1st July 2024 – 30th July 2024. The exhibition is open to the public during library hours.
Venue: Central Public Library, Basement 1, 100 Victoria St, 
#B1-01 National Library, Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, Singapore 188064
Admission: Free