Peru: Officials to implement security and traffic curbs in Lima through Nov. 16 for APEC Summit

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit is scheduled to take place in Lima Nov. 10-16. Related events will occur from Nov. 9 at the main venues of the Grand National Theater (Gran Teatro Nacional) and the Lima Convention Center (Centro de Convenciones de Lima). Dozens of executives from Fortune 500 companies, as well as heads of state and other government representatives from APEC's 21 member countries, will join the summit. The National Police will deploy over 13,000 officers to ensure security for delegates in the capital. Checkpoints and random security checks are likely, particularly on roads leading to summit venues. Security screening delays are possible at the entrances to major hotels hosting summit participants and Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM).

Significant traffic disruptions and public transportation changes are certain in Lima. Road closures and traffic diversions will affect the San Borja District, mainly near the Grand National Theater, and the Lima Convention Center. Notably, Avacion Avenue and Javier Prado avenue and highway will remain closed Nov. 14-16. Officials will also close the La Cultura Station of the Lima Metro Nov. 13-16. The government has declared Nov. 14-16 as a nonworking holiday for Lima city and Callao and Huaral provinces. Educational institutions and public offices in the affected areas will use telecommuting Nov. 11-13.

Anti-government and anti-APEC rallies usually occur in host cities, though gatherings are unlikely to affect the summit directly. Security personnel will likely prohibit gatherings near summit venues; demonstrators could congregate at other popular protest sites in Lima, including Plaza San Martin, Plaza de Armas, and El Campo de Marte Park. Most gatherings may attract dozens to hundreds of participants; clashes between demonstrators and security personnel cannot be ruled out.