MP: France undermines Azerbaijan–Armenia normalization through destructive narratives

The recent remarks made by the French Foreign Minister are unacceptable and do not reflect the realities formed in the region after Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty, Azerbaijani MP Javanshir Feyziyev said, The Daily Baku reports.

“Garabagh is the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan, recognized as such by the entire international community, including France itself. At a time when the region needs stability, reconciliation and a sustainable peace process, such statements serve to increase political tensions and encourage destructive narratives. Azerbaijan has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to peace and regional cooperation. Therefore, we expect all international actors, including France, to respect the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs of other states,” he said.

Feyziyev noted that certain political circles in France continue to approach the South Caucasus through their domestic political interests and lobbying influence rather than international law and regional realities.

“It’s obvious for everybody that Garabagh issue has already been resolved within the framework of Azerbaijan’s internationally recognized borders. Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant UN Security Council Resolutions. Attempts to artificially keep this issue on the international agenda are counterproductive and do not serve peace and regional stability. Instead of promoting biased narratives, France should contribute to confidence-building measures and support normalization efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan,” the MP stressed.

According to Feyziyev, the situation reinforces Azerbaijan’s concerns regarding double standards demonstrated by some European institutions.

“For nearly thirty years during the occupation, Azerbaijani mosques, cemeteries, historical monuments and cultural heritage sites were destroyed, looted or subjected to vandalism. During those years, we repeatedly raised our concerns but did not observe adequate reactions from many of the political actors who are now making loud statements about cultural heritage. Azerbaijan has repeatedly stated that all cultural and religious monuments, regardless of their origin, must be protected in accordance with international law and UNESCO conventions. However, humanitarian and cultural issues should not be used as political instruments or approached selectively. If certain European political circles truly support universal values, then the same standards must be applied equally to all sides. Selective sensitivity damages trust and undermines the credibility of international humanitarian principles that they pretend to follow,” he added.