Macron's policy of division fails as French-Azerbaijani ties strengthen

Despite France's continued efforts to exert political pressure and pursue a biased foreign policy towards Azerbaijan, the relationship between the two nations remains resilient, with growing numbers of French citizens visiting the country.

This trend highlights the failure of President Emmanuel Macron's attempts to influence bilateral relations and foster discord between the French and Azerbaijani peoples, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

According to recent data from Azerbaijan's ASAN xidmət, the number of French nationals receiving visas has risen significantly this year. In September and October 2024, a total of 1,167 French citizens were granted visas, compared to 1,003 during the same period in 2023. This marks a notable 16.4 per cent increase in just one year, suggesting that efforts by the Elysee Palace to limit travel to Azerbaijan have been ineffective.

Further supporting this trend, figures from Azerbaijan's State Border Service reveal that 264 more French citizens entered the country in September 2024 compared to the same month in 2023, with only a slight decrease observed in October. The overall number of French nationals visiting Azerbaijan has steadily risen since 2022, with a 24 per cent increase in the first 10 months of 2024 compared to 2022, and a 15 per cent rise compared to the previous year.

These statistics underscore a clear message: despite diplomatic tensions and political rhetoric, the bond between the French and Azerbaijani peoples remains strong. French tourists, journalists, and members of civil society have actively participated in major events in Azerbaijan, including Formula 1 races and other international gatherings. The upcoming COP29 conference is expected to see further French involvement.

While the Macron administration may seek to influence public opinion and divide the two nations, the enduring cultural, historical, and people-to-people ties between Azerbaijan and France remain unaffected. As demonstrated by the increasing number of French nationals travelling to Azerbaijan, Macron’s policy of sowing discord is unlikely to succeed.

The relationship between the two countries, rooted in mutual respect and cooperation, is set to continue flourishing, undeterred by political maneuvers from the French government.

By Vafa Guliyeva