BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 18. In a recent article, La Gazette du Caucase criticized France's decision to boycott COP29 in Baku, citing the influence of French Armenian organizations and political posturing, Trend reports.
La Gazette du Caucase highlighted that France's absence, justified by political disagreements, conceals a broader campaign led by influential French Armenian groups. French President Emmanuel Macron initially announced he would not attend, delegating participation to Minister for Ecological Transition Agnès Pannier-Runacher, who also ultimately boycotted the event.
"Behind this diplomatic snub lies the pressure exerted by French Armenian organizations, amplified by figures like Senator Yannick Jadot, who accused Azerbaijan of pursuing a so-called "ethnic cleansing policy" against Armenians," the article noted. It further mentioned similar rhetoric from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and Republican MP Laurent Wauquiez, while segments of the French media criticized Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29.
La Gazette du Caucase directly countered these narratives, emphasizing that "contrary to claims by individuals like Patrick Cohen of France Inter, who called Azerbaijan a dictatorship, visits to the country reveal a secular, multicultural society where openness and unity prevail".
The publication underscored the historical context often ignored in French commentary. "It is essential to recall that Armenian forces invaded Azerbaijani territory nearly 30 years ago, creating an unrecognized "republic" in violation of international law. The 2020 war has liberated these territories, paving the way for reconstruction and the return of displaced people," it stated.
The article also criticized the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for issuing a travel warning about Azerbaijan, dismissing it as unfounded. "French travelers who visit Azerbaijan experience a warm welcome and a profound appreciation for French culture," the piece observed.
La Gazette du Caucase concluded that France's actions, framed as support for Armenia, risk emboldening extremists rather than fostering peace. "By boycotting COP29 and backing arms deliveries to Yerevan, France signals preparation for further conflict instead of advocating for a fair and lasting peace," the article concluded.