Macron backs Armenia–Azerbaijan peace deal in Independence Day message to Aliyev

President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated France’s support for normalising relations with Azerbaijan and advancing the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process in a congratulatory message to Baku on the country’s Independence Day.

In a letter addressed to President Ilham Aliyev, Macron linked the political message to ongoing bilateral contacts, including their meeting in Copenhagen in October and a telephone conversation in May.

He framed the exchange as part of a broader effort to stabilise and expand cooperation between Paris and Baku.

“I would like to reiterate my intention to continue working toward the normalization of our bilateral relations in order to harness their full potential,” Macron wrote, signalling a push to deepen engagement across regional dialogue and sectoral cooperation, including economy, culture and education.

He also highlighted what he described as “the exemplary nature” of collaboration around the French-Azerbaijani University, which marks its 10th anniversary this year.

On regional security, Macron reaffirmed France’s diplomatic stance on the South Caucasus peace agenda, stating: “France’s full support for the continuation and conclusion of the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which will allow for the opening of a new chapter for the well-being of all peoples in the region."