BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 18. In a recent
article, La Gazette du Caucase criticized France’s
decision to boycott COP29 in Baku, citing the influence of French
Armenian organizations and political posturing, Trend reports.
La Gazette du Caucase highlighted that France’s absence,
justified by political disagreements, conceals a broader campaign
led by influential French Armenian groups. French President
Emmanuel Macron initially announced he would not attend, delegating
participation to Minister for Ecological Transition Agnès
Pannier-Runacher, who also ultimately boycotted the event.
“Behind this diplomatic snub lies the pressure exerted by French
Armenian organizations, amplified by figures like Senator Yannick
Jadot, who accused Azerbaijan of pursuing a so-called “ethnic
cleansing policy” against Armenians,” the article noted. It further
mentioned similar rhetoric from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and
Republican MP Laurent Wauquiez, while segments of the French media
criticized Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29.
La Gazette du Caucase directly countered these narratives,
emphasizing that “contrary to claims by individuals like Patrick
Cohen of France Inter, who called Azerbaijan a dictatorship, visits
to the country reveal a secular, multicultural society where
openness and unity prevail”.
The publication underscored the historical context often ignored
in French commentary. “It is essential to recall that Armenian
forces invaded Azerbaijani territory nearly 30 years ago, creating
an unrecognized “republic” in violation of international law. The
2020 war has liberated these territories, paving the way for
reconstruction and the return of displaced people,” it stated.
The article also criticized the French Ministry of Foreign
Affairs for issuing a travel warning about Azerbaijan, dismissing
it as unfounded. “French travelers who visit Azerbaijan experience
a warm welcome and a profound appreciation for French culture,” the
piece observed.
La Gazette du Caucase concluded that France’s actions, framed as
support for Armenia, risk emboldening extremists rather than
fostering peace. “By boycotting COP29 and backing arms deliveries
to Yerevan, France signals preparation for further conflict instead
of advocating for a fair and lasting peace,” the article
concluded.
