France responsible for thousands of deaths Former permanent rep of Comoros to UN says

Former Permanent Representative of the Comoros to the United Nations Mohamed Toihiri has said that Comoros endured many disasters, and Mayotte is on the brink of collapse.

Toihiri made this statement during the international conference "Illegal Occupation of Mayotte by France" organised by the Baku Initiative Group in Baku. The conference focused on the situation of Mayotte, an island under French occupation, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

"France has established so-called borders and artificial barriers to restrict the movement of people of the same origin living on the island of Mayotte. France aims to divide closely related communities. The visa regime imposed on Comorians creates significant problems, especially for travel to nearby areas for health reasons," he said.

He also highlighted that, as a result of France's colonial policy, thousands of people have died, and many more are on the brink of death.

"Comorians face restrictions on their movement and their ability to live comfortably. During the French military operation 'Wuambushu,' or 'Return,' many houses were burned, numerous people were killed, and many people were forcibly expelled from their houses," he added.

Meanwhile, lawyer representing the Union of the Comoros Mohamed Hassani has announced that France regards Mayotte as its own territory.

"Mayotte is currently under illegal occupation, which significantly impacts the lives of its inhabitants. France claims this occupation is legal and considers Mayotte part of its territory. However, the treatment of the island's residents by France is entirely different, and people are suffering as a result of this policy. Therefore, to ensure a peaceful life on Mayotte, achieving independence is necessary," he said during the conference.

Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group Abbas Abbasov has said that France blocks discussions on Comoros issues.

“France has been obstructing discussions related to the Union of the Comoros in all international organisations since 1995,” Abbasov told journalists during the conference.