Azerbaijani pundit castigates France, India for disruptive actions in region

Farid Shafiyev, head of the Centre for Analysis of International Relations (AIR), delivered strong remarks at the fifth meeting of the Russian-Azerbaijani Expert Council in Baku.

This significant gathering, established in 2021 and marking three years of operation, convened amidst Azerbaijan's recent achievement of full sovereignty over its liberated territories, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

Shafiyev underscored ongoing efforts in reconstruction and rehabilitation across these areas, noting their pivotal role in Azerbaijan's post-conflict recovery.

Addressing journalists, Shafiyev emphasized that this year's meeting occurs in a new context, where Azerbaijan is actively engaged in restoring its territories and preparing to host COP29. The agenda of the meeting includes vital discussions on regional issues, particularly focusing on transportation and broader spheres of regional cooperation.

Shafiyev also criticized what he described as the "unconstructive activities" of non-regional players, specifically calling out France and India for actions that, in his view, undermine regional peace and security. He expressed concern over their contributions to the region, contrasting them unfavourably against Azerbaijan's stance of openness to cooperation with all countries, including European and Western nations.