Ambassador of Peru
In 2022, H.E. Carlos Rodolfo Zapata Lopez was appointed as the Ambassador of Peru to Saudi Arabia. This is the second assignment of the Ambassador to the Kingdom since 2015. A career diplomat, H.E. Lopez represented Peru in Hungary, the USA, New Zealand, Ecuador, and Venezuela. Ambassador Carlos Rodolfo Zapata Lopez is awarded the Order of Merit in the Diplomatic Service of Peru Jose Gregorio Paz Soldan in the grade of “Red Cross.”
Please discuss the achievements of Saudi-Peruvian diplomatic relations since 1986. How do you see partnership perspectives in the short and long term?
Since the establishment of our embassies in 2013, we have been working very solid to create the best conditions through cooperation agreements in order to promote commercial and cultural exchange and investment in a framework of friendship and mutual benefit.
While the two countries have achieved fruitful cooperation in the field of food and agricultural imports, negotiations are underway on a general cooperation agreement, an air service agreement and disaster risk management. I believe that these agreements will open up new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment, as well as deepen people-to-people relations.
This is your second assignment in the Kingdom. Please, discuss the changes you have witnessed after arrival for the second time. How do you envision your role at this time?
Perhaps one of the most pleasant moments as a diplomat is to have the ability to look back at the country where you served and be able to assess the changes. Saudi Arabia is like an extraordinary gem that needs to be polished, beautified, and presented to the world. During my first assignment period, I explored and discovered the Saudis’ unique nature and devotion to tradition, ancient history, and art. It was a unique experience that deeply impressed me.
Now, as I have arrived for the second time, I have had the opportunity to appreciate that the Vision 2030 of the Kingdom is influencing changes in Saudi society. Vision 2030 is a roadmap to the future of this already prosperous country. This is a great opportunity to change the vision of the world community toward this country, promote strategic investment in new industries through wise leadership, and show the world the rich legacy, culture, and generosity of Saudi Arabia. Most importantly, this is a special endeavour, especially offering opportunities to youth, one of the Kingdom’s greatest assets, who will reach the goals of Vision 2030 and take them to a new level of excellence.
On the subject of Vision 2030, how do you envision the bilateral collaboration in this initiative?
Vision 2030 opens up important fields for cooperation in different areas of interest to both countries. This will create the environment and conditions for expanding cooperation between the public and private sectors of the two countries, leading to the creation of a multisectoral network. I believe such cooperation between Peru and Saudi Arabia will remarkably transform the diplomatic, trade, and political fields, leading to sustainable and long-term synergy.
You hold the Order of Merit in the Diplomatic Service of Peru Jose Gregorio Paz Soldan. In addition to honor, how does this order increase a diplomat’s responsibility?
It is a decoration awarded for diplomatic and foreign policy services rendered to the country. For us Peruvian diplomats, it is a recognition of the achievements during the diplomatic career, which commits us to continue representing and promoting the interests of our people and country. Furthermore, this award has encouraged me as a strong and resilient professional to continue to create, maintain, and, if required, repair relationships between my nation and the countries I serve. That is why I consider this award an honor that inspires me to grow as an envoy and develop both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy in the countries where I serve.
A career diplomat, you have served in Hungry, the USA, New Zealand, Ecuador, and Venezuela. How has the concept of diplomacy changed since you started your vocation?
International relations are undergoing fundamental changes at an unprecedented pace, affecting the diplomacy we have known for the past century. Technological development, digitalization, and the number of domestic and international actors whose activities are related to diplomacy are increasing, and the public is becoming more sensitive to foreign policy issues. Nevertheless, the main challenge is that diplomacy serves to achieve the development of countries and stability in the world. Therefore, remaining true to the core values of diplomacy, I have striven to strengthen Peru’s bilateral ties with foreign states and peoples over the years of my service. I view diplomacy as a discipline through which I try to support my country, encourage multilateral cooperation, and maintain peace.
