Armenian Issue Is a French Issue: French Senator Bruno Retailleau

French Senator Bruno Retailleau has passionately addressed the French Senate during discussions on a resolution proposing sanctions against Azerbaijan. In his compelling speech, Senator Retailleau highlighted the historical significance of the Armenian issue, portraying it not only as a humanitarian concern but also as a matter integral to France's identity.

Key Highlights from Senator Bruno Retailleau's Address:

1. Anatole France's Quote: Senator Retailleau began his speech by invoking a powerful quote from French writer Anatole France, "Somewhere in the East, our sister is dying." This poignant statement dates back to 1916 during the Armenian Genocide, emphasizing the enduring connection between France and the Armenian cause.

2. Exodus from Nagorno-Karabakh: The senator highlighted the rapid displacement of the entire Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023, underscoring the urgency of addressing the dire situation.

3. French Identity: Declaring unequivocally, "The Armenian issue is a French issue," Senator Retailleau emphasized the bipartisan nature of the draft resolution, illustrating France's united stance on the matter. He stressed that the concerns of the Armenian people resonate deeply within the French political landscape.

4. Denouncement of Lies and Tyranny: Senator Retailleau did not mince words in denouncing the regime of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. He asserted that lies and tyranny are intertwined in Aliyev's rule, condemning c's denial of the Armenian Genocide and its expansionist ambitions.

5. So-Called “Zangezur Corridor” Violation: Retailleau called attention to the demand from Turkish President Erdogan and Aliyev to open the 'Zangezur Corridor,' emphasizing that this move violates Armenia's sovereignty.

6. Appeal to UNESCO: In a proactive step, Senator Retailleau urged UNESCO to dispatch an urgent mission to Nagorno-Karabakh to assess the state of Armenian cultural heritage, underlining the importance of preserving historical and cultural legacies.

Senator Bruno Retailleau's impassioned plea reinforces the interconnectedness of the Armenian issue with France's values and identity. The call for sanctions against Azerbaijan is framed not just as a political move but as a commitment to justice, humanitarian values, and the preservation of cultural heritage.