France’s Évian-les-Bains Removes All Mentions of ‘Park of Azerbaijan’

The French municipality of Évian-les-Bains has recently taken a decisive step to erase all mentions of the "Park of Azerbaijan" within the city. This decision comes as a response to mounting opposition demands and concerns over political tensions, particularly following Azerbaijan's military actions against Artsakh in September, and the governance under President Ilham Aliyev, whom people label as a dictator.

The "Park of Azerbaijan" had its inception in 2017 as part of a collaborative effort established through a cooperation agreement signed with the Azerbaijani city of Ismayilli back in 2015. However, escalating global events and growing dissent within Évian prompted opposition representatives to call for the eradication of all references to the park.

Josiane Lei, the Mayor of Évian-les-Bains, acknowledged the demands of the opposition and confirmed the removal of all inscriptions relating to the "Park of Azerbaijan." This decision reflects the municipality's response to the evolving socio-political landscape and aligns with sentiments prevailing within the community.

Situated in Eastern France along the border with Switzerland, Évian-les-Bains, also known as Évian, stands in the northern Haute-Savoie department within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Renowned for its luxurious status as a holiday resort and spa town nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, Évian boasts a rich history of attracting notable personalities over the centuries.

Royalty, including Kings Edward VII and George V of the United Kingdom, and King Farouk of Egypt, have graced the town with their presence. Noteworthy figures such as Countess Anna de Noailles and esteemed author Marcel Proust have also been associated with this famed locale.

Évian is celebrated for its production of mineral water, a significant contributor to its economy, alongside attractions like the Casino d’Évian, acclaimed as the largest themed casino in Europe, and the Evian Royal Resort.

The removal of references to the "Park of Azerbaijan" represents a nuanced response to geopolitical sensitivities, echoing the sentiment of the community while upholding Évian's status as a historical and opulent destination cherished by visitors and residents alike.