Baku: “We firmly reject the anti-Azerbaijan allegations voiced by France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-No«l Barrot, at the French Senate on 6 May,” stated Aykhan Hajizada, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, regarding the controversial remarks made by Barrot. The Azerbaijani MFA has expressed its strong disapproval of the French Minister’s narrative concerning the Garabagh region, emphasizing that it is an integral part of Azerbaijan’s sovereign territory.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Azerbaijani Ministry has condemned the statements as provocative, especially at a time when conditions have been set for lasting peace following Azerbaijan’s recent conflict over its territories. The MFA criticized the French Minister for questioning Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and casting doubt on the protection of cultural and religious heritage within its borders.
The commentary highlighted the perceived double standards in Barrot’s remarks, pointing out that the Minister overlooked the destruction of numerous cultural sites during Armenia’s occupation of Azerbaijani territories. The Azerbaijani MFA noted that Barrot’s comments on the demolition of structures from the occupation period were inappropriate, referencing proceedings before the International Court of Justice.
Furthermore, the Ministry emphasized that historical and religious monuments in Azerbaijan are part of the country’s national heritage and are protected, regardless of their origin or affiliation. The MFA also addressed France’s call for a UNESCO assessment mission to the Garabagh region, labeling it a distortion of realities. Azerbaijan maintains that it has consistently sought such missions, which have been hindered by obstacles from Armenia and France, as confirmed by a UNESCO report in 2005.
The Azerbaijani commentary concluded by stating that the French Minister’s statements do not contribute to sustainable peace in the region.