French Senate Adopts Resolution Supporting Armenia's Territorial Integrity and Imposing Sanctions on Azerbaijan

In a landmark move, the French Senate has adopted a resolution demanding sanctions against Azerbaijan, expressing strong support for Armenia's territorial integrity and sovereignty. The resolution, passed with an overwhelming majority, denounces the military attack carried out by Azerbaijan, supported by its allies, on September 19 and 20, 2023, in Artsakh also known as Nagorno-Karabakh.

Key Highlights of the Resolution:

1. Support for Territorial Integrity: The resolution unequivocally supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Armenia, condemning the military actions taken by Azerbaijan in Nagorno-Karabakh.

2. Call for Safe Return: Emphasizing humanitarian concerns, the resolution calls on Azerbaijan to guarantee the right of the Armenian population to return to Nagorno-Karabakh. It stresses the need for conditions ensuring the safety and well-being of the returning population.

3. Troop Withdrawal: The resolution urges the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Azerbaijani and allied troops from the sovereign territory of Armenia. It highlights Armenia's right to protect its territorial integrity through various means, including military measures.

4. Condemnation of Arrests: The resolution condemns arbitrary arrests of political leaders in Nagorno-Karabakh and advocates for the exclusion of Azerbaijan from the intergovernmental committee for the protection of cultural property in armed conflict.

5. Cultural and Religious Heritage Protection: Recognizing the importance of cultural and religious heritage, the resolution calls for the establishment of an international group of experts at UNESCO. This group is tasked with a mission to visit Nagorno-Karabakh, preparing an informative report on the state of cultural and religious heritage in the region.

6. Sanctions and Embargo: To address the military aggression by Azerbaijan, the resolution proposes stringent measures. This includes the seizure of assets belonging to Azerbaijani leaders and an embargo on the import of gas and oil from Azerbaijan.

7. Overwhelming Senate Support: With an overwhelming 336 votes in favor and only 1 against, the French Senate showcases a unified stance in calling for sanctions against Azerbaijan.

The adoption of this resolution reflects the French Senate's commitment to promoting peace, condemning aggression, and safeguarding the rights and security of Armenia.