Question: On 14 April 2025, the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot speaking on the sidelines of EU foreign ministerial meeting in Luxembourg raised some anti-Azerbaijani allegations on regional tensions, peace process and Armenians currently under the trial in Azerbaijan. While you have criticised the statement of the French Minister, the French Ambassador to Azerbaijan has reposted these allegations in her X Account. How would you comment the frequently raised allegations of French officials against Azerbaijan?

Answer: We firmly reject and condemn the allegations made by the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot that is also referred by the French Ambassador to Azerbaijan.

Axar.az reports that this was stated by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aykhan Hajizada.

The duality in France’s policy—professing a desire for peace while pursuing actions that perpetuate conflict—exposes a troubling inconsistency. Such a hypocritical policy hinders prospects for a durable peace in the region.

France's provision of lethal weapons to Armenia, coupled with its persistent anti-Azerbaijan stance, not only undermines the peace process, but also stands in stark contrast to Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot's public expressions of concern over regional tensions.

Moreover, while the finalization of work on the draft peace treaty is an important development, the French side is well-aware that the signing of the peace agreement and lasting stability among others requires addressing core challenges, notably elimination of Armenia's territorial claims in its Constitution, and official dismantling of the Minsk Group and other related OSCE structures.

Obstructing judicial processes for those accused of crimes against humanity not only meddles in a nation's sovereignty but also erodes accountability for grave atrocities. Such interference by France, shields perpetrators and risks perpetuating cycles of impunity.

Instead of interfering in our regional affairs, France should give up its neocolonial policy, particularly in its overseas territories and Africa, which drawn large criticism from various nations, not just Azerbaijan.

French neocolonialism, while exploiting indigenous populations and resources, has always prioritised French interests over native welfare and fuelled long-term instability and ethnic tensions.

It is no secret that France's foreign policy exposes the moral bankruptcy of its so-called "civilizing mission."

We demand France to cease its steps that do not serve peace and undermine stability in the region.