Mayor of Paris Heads Delegation and 10-Truck Convoy Carrying Humanitarian Aid Arrives in Syunik

In a display of international solidarity, a convoy of ten trucks carrying crucial humanitarian aid from various French regions made its way from Yerevan to the Kornidzor checkpoint, marking a significant step in providing much-needed relief to the people of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). This mission, initiated by the City of Paris and supported by regions including Île-de-France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Hauts-de-France, Occitania, and Pays de la Loire, aims to alleviate the suffering of the Artsakh’s population, which has endured isolation and deprivation for months.

The Armenian Government had previously dispatched 361 tons of humanitarian aid to Artsakh, but this critical assistance had been stalled at the entrance to the Lachin Corridor since July 26 due to Azerbaijani blockade, leaving the citizens of Artsakh in dire need.

The convoy's journey took a significant turn when the first French truck carrying humanitarian aid merged with the previously sent Armenian convoy on August 9. This joint effort signifies the strength of international cooperation and commitment to aiding Artsakh.

Today, Anne Hidalgo, the Mayor of Paris, arrived in Armenia to oversee the convoy's progress through the Lachin Corridor. Her visit demonstrates the unwavering support of the French capital and other communities for the 120,000 Armenians of Artsakh, including 30,000 children, who have endured hardship for nine months.

Mayor Hidalgo took to social media to express her determination, stating, "I am in Armenia with the elected officials of Paris and other communities. 120,000 Armenians of Artsakh, including 30,000 children, have been isolated, starving and deprived of everything for 9 months. Due to this humanitarian disaster, we are providing them with humanitarian aid. Time is counted."

Upon her arrival in Syunik, Mayor Hidalgo was warmly welcomed by Governor Robert Ghukasyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Artsakh Sergey Ghazaryan, and the head of the Goris community, Arush Arushanyan. This reception marks a significant occasion, underscoring the international community's commitment to supporting Artsakh.

The humanitarian aid transported by the French convoy comprises vital supplies, including non-perishable food, baby food, powdered milk, generators, and solar panels. These provisions are intended to offer the people of Artsakh a chance to rebuild their lives and resist the hardships they have endured.

The ongoing efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to Artsakh demonstrate the global community's unwavering commitment to alleviating the suffering of those affected by the blockade. As the convoy sits at the Lachin Corridor, it stands as a symbol of hope and international unity in the face of adversity.