Peruvian Transport and Communications Minister Rafael Rey has delegated all studies and decisions regarding the proposed Lima to Chosica train project to private investment promotion agency ProInversion.
Speaking before the Plenary of Congress in a conciliatory tone, Rey stated that he does not oppose mass transportation systems, adding that both Lima and Peru urgently require multiple transit projects.
Rey explained that handing the evaluation to ProInversion ensures technical experts will determine what is viable and beneficial for the population. He added that he hoped the decision demonstrated his rectitude after recent controversy over the train line.
Addressing previous comments made in a news interview, Rey acknowledged that an unfortunate reference to the past had been misinterpreted. He affirmed that he holds no animosity toward anyone and is not in conflict with other politicians, despite what he described as a reputation stemming from his own temperament.
The minister chose not to respond directly to recent mentions on social media and news outlets. He stated that only an irresponsible or miserable official would oppose a project of public benefit due to real or alleged political disagreements, asserting that while he has flaws, he is neither miserable nor irresponsible.
Caltrain donation controversy
The political friction followed public remarks by Rey questioning whether passenger trains acquired for the route were actually donated. Rey told reporters that the municipality paid several million dollars directly to American rail company Caltrain, arguing that the financial transaction meant the equipment was not strictly a donation.
Lima municipal response
The Metropolitan Municipality of Lima rejected Rey's statements in an official communique, maintaining that the equipment was fully donated by the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, which operates Caltrain. Municipal officials emphasized that representatives of the United States government had participated in the formal donation act.
According to the municipality, the donated assets include 90 railcars, passenger cars featuring driver cabs, trailer units, 19 locomotives, spare parts, technical manuals, and complete inventory logs. The equipment was acquired to establish the Lima to Chosica passenger line, a project managed by ProInversion to serve public transport demand across Eastern Lima.
City officials urged the minister to verify technical information before making public statements. The municipal government invited the Ministry of Transport and Communications to a joint technical meeting to review documentation, warning that unverified claims risk damaging public trust as well as Peru's diplomatic and commercial relations.
Diplomatic concerns raised
Former Lima Mayor Rafael Lopez Aliaga, currently running as candidate for first alderman, stated that Rey's remarks had endangered international relations. Lopez Aliaga claimed that the minister failed to recognize a formal donation agreement signed by former United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Lopez Aliaga warned that public figures must exercise caution when making public declarations, noting that careless statements regarding signed agreements can create unnecessary diplomatic friction.
