Armenia is facing a security crisis, and France is determined that peace be established in the region. As reported by the Armenpress correspondent from Paris, this was stated by French President Emmanuel Macron during a joint statement before his meeting with Acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, noting that since the ceasefire declaration of 9 November 2020, even though the ceasefire is generally holding, much remains to be done.
“France is ready to help on this matter, first and foremost I am referring to the release of prisoners of war and other detainees, as well as the demining of territories. Also a very important issue is the preservation of heritage in Artsakh and the surrounding areas. Both Christian and Islamic heritage must absolutely be preserved. As co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, it is France’s duty to do everything so that the parties reach de-escalation and establish dialogue,” said the French President.
Emmanuel Macron stressed that delimitation between Armenia and Azerbaijan must be carried out exclusively through dialogue and that under no circumstances should force be used. “Azerbaijani forces must withdraw from the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia, and I call on the parties to return to the positions held as of 11 May,” said the French President. France will try to support the establishment of dialogue.
Emmanuel Macron stressed that in this difficult situation in which Armenia finds itself, France stands by Armenia’s side as always.
The agenda of the two countries’ leaders also includes issues of economic cooperation, outlining various directions, cooperation on the development of Armenia’s infrastructure, and others.
“In these difficult times, France is determined that peace be established in the region,” added Emmanuel Macron.
