French Foreign Minister: Armenia Can Rely on France to Counter Russian Pressure

In a recent press conference held in Yerevan, France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Stéphane Séjourné, made a strong commitment to protect Armenia from what he described as "Russian pressure." The French foreign minister emphasized France's unwavering support for Armenia, particularly in light of the democratic values shared between the two nations. Séjourné’s visit to Yerevan marked a pivotal moment in Armenia's ongoing pursuit of democracy and peace, despite external challenges.

Séjourné's remarks show concerns over Russia's attempts to exert pressure on Armenia, especially as the country works to strengthen its democratic institutions. He assured the Armenian people and government of France's steadfast support in defending democratic values, stating, "You can always count on our support in the defense of democratic values." This promise comes during rising tensions in the region, as Russia continues to assert its influence.

Séjourné further emphasized that France remains close to Armenia, reflecting a rare consensus across French political parties in their support for the country. "In France, there are few topics on which there is agreement between the political forces. Armenia is one of the few such topics," Séjourné added.

During the same press conference, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan reiterated Armenia's readiness to sign a peace treaty with Azerbaijan "as soon as possible." Mirzoyan confirmed that Armenia had already submitted its latest proposals for the peace agreement, which would mutually recognize each country's territorial integrity based on the Almaty Declaration of 1991.

Mirzoyan expressed gratitude to France for its continuous support in the peace process, emphasizing Armenia's commitment to a peaceful resolution. "We are ready to quickly sign the text [of the peace treaty with Azerbaijan]," he stated.

In his address, Séjourné also called on Azerbaijan to demonstrate its commitment to peace before hosting the upcoming COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku. He stressed that peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is essential for the stability of the South Caucasus and the broader region. 

"The South Caucasus should become a region of peace and cooperation," Séjourné stated. He added that France, along with the international community, is eager to see both nations resolve their differences. The French minister also reiterated the importance of the EU monitoring mission in Armenia, calling for continued efforts to ensure peace along the border.

Séjourné is also optimistic about Armenia's potential role in the Crossroads of Peace project, which aims to connect Europe and Asia through Armenia. He noted that this project could be a major economic boost for Armenia if it respects the sovereignty of all involved nations.

The French minister repeated France's commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Armenia, particularly in the economic and defense sectors. He emphasized France’s ongoing support, including a 29 million euro aid package for humanitarian efforts and refugees in Armenia. Séjourné confirmed that France would continue to strengthen Armenia's defense capabilities to ensure it can protect its population, while stressing that this cooperation would not escalate tensions in the region.

During his visit, Séjourné paid tribute to the victims of the Armenian Genocide, visiting the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan. He expressed deep emotions and the significant role the genocide plays in the shared history of France and Armenia. Séjourné also met with many French nationals at the memorial, further illustrating the close ties between the two countries.

"The Armenian Genocide is something that played a big role in the history of our countries," Séjourné noted. He spoke about the importance of fighting historical revisionism and standing up for truth and memory.

Séjourné’s visit also served to reinforce France’s commitment to Armenia’s economic development. He announced that France would send an expert to assist Armenia's Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, furthering cooperation in the area of infrastructure development. This cooperation is seen as part of a broader effort to foster stability and prosperity in the region.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan expressed confidence in the enduring friendship between the two nations, built on shared values of democracy, freedom, and equality. Both ministers stressed that the political changes within France would not affect the country's policies toward Armenia.

France’s pledge to protect Armenia from external pressures, particularly from Russia, and its active role in promoting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, show the deep and enduring relationship between the two nations. Stéphane Séjourné’s visit to Armenia reaffirms France’s commitment to supporting Armenia's democratic values, territorial integrity, and economic growth, while advocating for peace and stability in the region.