In a series of interviews with the Public Radio of Armenia, France’s Ambassador to Armenia, Olivier Decottignies, delivered a candid assessment of the international response to the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) crisis, underscored the critical need for a lasting peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and elaborated on France’s multifaceted support for Armenia. Ambassador Decottignies addressed concerns ranging from the forced displacement of Artsakh’s Armenian population to the ongoing security challenges and regional communication prospects.
Inadequate International Response to Artsakh’s Depopulation: A French Perspective
Ambassador Decottignies stated unequivocally that the international community’s reaction to the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh was “not adequate.” He highlighted France’s proactive role, noting that France initiated discussions at the UN Security Council on three occasions during both the blockade and the forced displacement of Artsakh Armenians. Despite these efforts, the Ambassador lamented that the overall international response fell short of what was necessary to prevent the humanitarian catastrophe and uphold the rights of Artsakh’s population.
Right of Return: An Undeniable Right, a Binding International Court Decision
Addressing the critical issue of the displaced Artsakh Armenians’ return to their homes, Ambassador Decottignies emphasized that this is not merely a hypothetical scenario but a fundamental right. He cited the binding decision of the International Court of Justice from November 17, 618, which explicitly recognizes the right of displaced persons to return to Nagorno-Karabakh. According to the Ambassador, this ruling mandates Azerbaijan to facilitate this return, adhering to specific criteria concerning security, heritage protection, and cultural and religious rights as detailed in the ICJ decision.
“Peace Crossroads” Initiative: Armenia’s Proposal for Regional De-blockade Supported by France
Turning to regional communications, Ambassador Decottignies affirmed France’s support for the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative proposed by Armenia. He described it as a “very good approach” to genuinely de-block regional communication routes. However, he stressed that any such de-blockade must be implemented based on the principles of sovereignty, reciprocity, and equality, with each nation controlling infrastructure within its own territory.
Persistent Conflict Risk and the Imperative of a Peace Treaty
Acknowledging ongoing concerns about renewed conflict, Ambassador Decottignies noted the “relative stability” currently observed, with a significant decrease in major military incidents over the past year. He credited, in part, the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia for contributing to this stability by providing on-the-ground presence and acting as a deterrent. However, he cautioned that this stability is fragile and “not sustainable” in the absence of a comprehensive peace treaty. The Ambassador underscored France’s continued commitment to defense cooperation with and support for Armenia in achieving a lasting peace.
EU Monitoring Mission: A Positive Impact on Stability, Welcomed by Border Communities
Ambassador Decottignies defended the EU Monitoring Mission’s presence in Armenia, highlighting its extended mandate despite Azerbaijan’s opposition. He clarified that the mission operates on Armenian territory at Armenia’s invitation, a legitimate sovereign right. He also mentioned that a parallel offer to deploy a mission on the Azerbaijani side was declined by Baku. The Ambassador emphasized the mission’s positive impact on stability, noting a reduction in incidents in the patrol areas and along the line of contact. He cited firsthand accounts from European leaders and border residents who expressed gratitude and appreciation for the mission’s professionalism and confidence-building presence in vulnerable border regions.
Alma-Ata Declaration: Long-Standing Recognition of Artsakh as Part of Azerbaijan
Addressing the sensitive issue of Nagorno-Karabakh’s status, Ambassador Decottignies clarified France’s position, stating that Nagorno-Karabakh has not been recognized as a state by either the international community or even Armenia itself. He pointed out that Armenia has recognized Artsakh as part of Azerbaijan since the Alma-Ata Declaration, which acknowledged Soviet-era administrative boundaries as international borders. The Ambassador refuted claims that recognition occurred in Prague in 2022, stating that the Prague meeting merely reaffirmed the pre-existing Alma-Ata framework. He emphasized that the current focus should be on achieving a just, sustainable, and robust peace to eliminate threats against Armenia.
Terrorism Designation: Baku’s Stance on Artsakh Leadership Not Shared by EU
Addressing Baku’s characterization of Artsakh’s political and military leadership as “terrorist,” Ambassador Decottignies stated that terrorism is a serious issue that should not be trivialized. He clarified that the EU, of which France is a member, maintains a list of designated terrorist organizations, and Nagorno-Karabakh is not included on this list. While declining to comment directly on Azerbaijan’s statements, the Ambassador implicitly distanced France and the EU from Baku’s terrorism designation. He also acknowledged the limitations of France’s direct influence in Baku due to Azerbaijan’s perception of France’s pro-Armenian stance, suggesting that countries with closer ties to Azerbaijan might be better positioned to mediate and seek just resolutions.
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