
	PERU TODAY
Newsletter of the Peruvian Embassy in the UK
No.5, July 2008

Editorial

Dear readers,

This is a special month for Peru and its friends. Every 28th of July we celebrate the anniversary of our independence. 187 years have passed since the birth of our Republic, time in which Peru has grown as an individual nation. Based on its ancient pre-Columbian history, rich elements from different cultures have contributed to define the personality, colours and flavours of our country. Peru is today a nation with clear objectives and seeks to offer a better life to its citizens.

On this occasion, we would like to dedicate the current issue to those that have contributed to consolidate the perception of Peru as a beautiful and friendly land. Here in the United Kingdom many activities have been organised to celebrate our national day. We hope you can join us in this special occasion. Check our events calendar for more details.

Enjoy this special issue!

News

Winners of the first international competition 'The Best Potato Recipes of the World' were announced: more than 100 people from 24 countries participated

The results of the first international competition 'The Best Potato Recipes of the World', organized to celebrate the 'International Year of the Potato', were officially announced.
	*Read more...*

Peru's economic summary:

1. On July 14th former International Monetary Fund (IMF) official, Luis Valdivieso, was sworn in as the new Economy and Finance Minister replacing Luis Carranza, who presented his resignation for personal reasons. Valdivieso brings 30 years experience at the IMF. During Carranza's appointment foreign debt was reduced to 18.4% of GDP by the end of 2007, down from 38% in 2006, fiscal management allowed a 3% surplus and Peru achieved investment grade rating from Fitch Ratings.

Read more...

Events Calendar

Celebration of 187 years of the Peruvian Independence

Friday 25th July, 7.00pm: Mass and reception

The Consulate General of Peru invites the Peruvian Community and friends to the mass and cocktail to celebrate the national day.
The Oratory, Brompton Road, London, SW7 2RP
	*Read more...*

Sunday 27th July, 12.00pm to midnight: Cuzqueña Beer presents 'Pure Peru', celebrating Peruvian Independece Day at The Vibe Bar, The Truman Brewery. Free admission

Experience a fabulous day of Peruvian food and drink, live music and culture.
The Vibe Bar
91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL
*Read more...*

Trade & Investment

Peru

	23rd and 24th September: Peru Gift Show 2008, one of the most important trade events
	International trade fair that will bring together more than 140 national exhibitors and will offer the best selection of handcrafts and handmade home accessories produced in Peru.
	*Read more...*

28th - 30th May 2009: FIBCA 2009. International Fair for capital good

This international event will offer opportunities for both local and international companies to do business in different sectors, as it comprises machinery, equipment, services and industrial inputs for diverse industries.
Jockey Plaza Convention Centre, Lima
	*Read more...*

Art & Culture

50th Anniversary of Paddington Bear

22nd June to 3rd August

Paddington's window display: Hamleys is hosting a fantastic window display of Paddington Bear.

Paddington Bear website: www.paddingtonbear.co.uk

Until 26th July: 'Obsessed by you' by Mario Testino

Phillips de Pury & Company
Howick Place, London, SW1P 1BB
Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm
*Read more...*

Recent activities

Monday 21st July: 'Natural Resources and Development in Peru'

The Peruvian Embassy sponsored the conference on 'Natural Resources and Development in Peru', organized by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM). The event was chaired by Sir Mark Moddy-Stuart, chairman of the Anglo Peruvian plc; keynote speakers were John Groom, chief operating officer of the ICMM; Renato Amorin, director of International Affairs for Vale; Peruvian Ambassador, Ricardo V. Luna.

Thursday 3rd July: TIG Briefing on the LAC-EU Summit at the Peruvian Embassy

The British Peruvian Trade and Investment Group (TIG) met for the second time this year. On this occasion, Ambassador Ricardo V. Luna briefed the attendees on the results of the V Latin American and Caribbean - European Union Summit and the II LAC-EU Business Summit, held simultaneously in Lima on 15 and 16 May.

Thursday 26th June: Opening view of Peruvian project at the London Festival of Architecture at the Peruvian Embassy

The Peruvian Embassy opened the exhibition ‘Growing Pains: the Re-invasion of the Shantytown’ as part of the London Festival of Architecture 2008.

Read more...

Tuesday 17th June: Seminar and screening 'Potato: hidden treasure' with Sandy Knapp and Jim Godfrey at Canning House

As part of the celebration of 2008 as the International Year of the Potato, Dr. Sandy Knapp, botanist at the Natural History Museum, and Jim Godfrey, former chairman of the International Centre of the Potato in Lima, Peru, discussed the botanic origin, history and role of the potato in the world.

Monday 16th June: Conferences 'Environment and Society' by Victor Rojas, and 'The challenges for the production of the potato' by Jim Godfrey, former chairman to the International Centre of the Potato in Lima, at the Peruvian Embassy

Organized by the General Consulate in Peru and the 'Consejo de Consulta' of Peru as part of the celebration of the International Year of the Potato.

Thursday 12th June: Opening view of exhibition 'The Odyssey of the Potato'

The exhibition was opened at the Hay's Galleria to commemorate the International Year of the Potato.

*Tuesday 10th June: British charity donates to Peruvian deafblind children in a ceremony at the Peruvian Embassy*

British charity "Children of Latin America" (COLA) made a significant contribution to the Hellen Keller Association of Peru, an organization that provides care, education and job opportunities to young persons experiencing simultaneously blindness and deafness.

Read more...