Azerbaijani parliament condemns France’s neo-colonial policy

The Milli Majlis (parliament) of Azerbaijan hosted a meeting with a delegation of media representatives from French overseas territories, underscoring its stance against France’s continued neo-colonial policies. 

The gathering brought together members of the parliamentary group supporting the people of Corsica, including MPs Javanshir Feyziyev, Tural Ganjaliyev, Shahin Ismayilov, and Azer Karimli, to discuss the ongoing struggle against colonialism and Azerbaijan’s role in supporting oppressed nations, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

MP Javanshir Feyziyev expressed regret that countries like France continue their colonial policies to this day, oppressing indigenous peoples, exploiting colonial territories, and violating the rights of national minorities. He stated that Azerbaijan supports nations currently suffering from France’s colonial policies in their struggle against colonialism. He also emphasised that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev raises the issue of neo-colonialism on all international platforms.

MP Azer Karimli noted that this meeting coincided with the Remembrance Day of the victims of the Khojaly tragedy in Azerbaijan. He spoke about the genocide committed by Armenia in Khojaly and the history of Azerbaijan’s independence. He stressed that France’s neo-colonial policy is contrary to the principles of civilised humanity and humanitarian values.

MP Shahin Ismayilov highlighted the role of the press in supporting nations suffering from French colonialism and in bringing their rightful voices to the international community. He underscored the importance of adhering to international law in this matter.

MP Tural Ganjaliyev pointed out the importance of mutual cooperation. He stated that France’s presence in overseas territories is now perceived as neo-colonialism. Expressing regret that France continues to maintain its political and economic influence over these territories, he stressed the need to combat these outdated stereotypes.

The discussion also touched upon the establishment of the Baku Initiative Group as part of efforts to combat French colonialism, with its activities in this direction receiving high praise. The issue was also on the agenda at events of the Non-Aligned Movement and COP29. It was noted that countries like France are attempting to pressure Azerbaijan for opposing their colonial policies. However, Azerbaijan remains steadfast in its position and will continue to support oppressed nations in their struggle by all possible means.

The head of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), Abbas Abbasov, who attended the meeting, spoke about the group’s support for the liberation of colonial territories. He highlighted the organisation’s consistent efforts in fighting colonialism and neo-colonialism.

During the exchange of views, media representatives from New Caledonia, Saint Martin, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana discussed Azerbaijan’s role in the decolonisation process. They stated that the French authorities disregard the lives of these peoples and highly appreciated Azerbaijan’s support in their anti-colonial struggle. They also noted the creation of the International Front for Liberation against France’s colonial policies and expressed confidence that it would yield positive results.

Foreign media representatives also discussed the importance of establishing economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties, as well as cooperation in media and information exchange.

During the meeting, guests received detailed answers to a number of their questions.

As part of the event, media representatives from French colonies toured the plenary hall of the Milli Majlis, familiarised themselves with the conditions created for MPs’ productive work, and gave interviews to local journalists.

By Vugar Khalilov