Peru has recalled its ambassador from Venezuela, while accusing Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez of interfering in its internal affairs.
Peru's Foreign Ministry said ambassador Carlos Urrutia has been recalled after Mr. Chavez praised Peruvian presidential candidate Ollanta Humala at a ceremony Tuesday in Caracas.
The ministry said President Chavez made references to Peru's political process that are not in line with the principles of the inter-American system that call for non-interference in a country's internal affairs.
At Tuesday's ceremony, Mr. Chavez also congratulated Bolivian President-elect Evo Morales.
Recent opinion polls indicate Mr. Humala, a former army officer, is tied for first place with conservative former Congresswoman Lourdes Flores in Peru's presidential race. His surge is attributed to his nationalistic views and appeal to the poor.
Peru's election is scheduled for April.
Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.