Western Azerbaijan Community urges Armenia to resist French provocations

The Western Azerbaijan Community has issued a stern statement addressing the recent sale of lethal weaponry by France to Armenia, urging Armenia to resist provocations and choose the path of peace.

In a statement reported by Caliber.Az, the community expressed grave concerns over France's actions in the South Caucasus. "France is taking steps to penetrate the South Caucasus region in order to escalate the situation there," the statement read. It was highlighted that on June 18, 2024, an agreement was signed for the supply of CAESAR self-propelled artillery systems and accompanying shells from France to Armenia.

Further exacerbating tensions, a group of French politicians on the same day called on the President of France to deploy troops to Armenia. "The fact that this is an organized campaign leaves no doubt. It is clear that France is attempting to provoke the region and, taking advantage of the situation, intends to deploy troops there," stated the Western Azerbaijan Community.

The community did not mince words in its condemnation of France's actions. "The Western Azerbaijan Community strongly condemns France's dangerous games and unacceptable provocations," the statement emphasized.

Addressing the Armenian government, the community pointed out the inconsistency in its actions. "The actions of the Armenian leadership are contradictory: on the one hand, they speak of peace, while on the other, they purchase offensive weapons," the statement noted.

In conclusion, the Western Azerbaijan Community demanded that Armenia not yield to France's provocations. "The community demands that Armenia not succumb to France's provocations, put an end to its large-scale militarization program, and embark on the path of peace with Azerbaijan," the statement urged.

France has finalized a contract to sell CAESAR self-propelled howitzers to Armenia, according to Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu on June 18. This deal signifies Yerevan's strengthening military ties with Western nations and a shift away from its traditional ally, Russia.

Lecornu announced the contract on X following a meeting with his Armenian counterpart, Suren Papikyan, but did not disclose the number of systems involved. France, home to a significant Armenian diaspora, is one of Yerevan's most steadfast supporters in Europe.