In a strategic move amidst escalating tensions in the Caucasus region, French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced during his visit to Armenia a significant military assistance package. France pledges to provide Armenia with modern air defense systems and missiles, coupled with comprehensive training for its troops, in accordance with previous agreements.
The timing of Lecornu’s visit is noteworthy, coming immediately after Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s diplomatic discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. These exchanges highlight the deepening defense and political ties between France and Armenia.
However, the backdrop against which these developments unfold is one of stalled peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Observers note that the strengthening relationship between France and Armenia coincides with Azerbaijan’s increasingly confrontational foreign policy, particularly towards Western nations like France.
Despite Azerbaijan’s military victory in the recent conflict with Armenia, capturing territories including the Armenian-populated Nagorno-Karabakh, experts caution against a reckless diplomatic approach. Azerbaijan’s aggressive stance risks alienating major powers like the United States and France, potentially compromising its long-term interests for sustainable peace and stability.
Concerns have been raised regarding the management of Azerbaijan’s foreign policy, with speculation about undue influence from presidential advisor on foreign affairs, Hikmat Hajiyev. Reports suggest that Hajiyev and his associates manipulate state resources, including media and funding, to pursue misguided and reckless diplomatic endeavors.
Critics allege that Azerbaijan’s current Foreign Minister, Jeyhun Bayramov, lacks the competence and influence to shape effective foreign policy decisions, potentially leaving the nation vulnerable to the whims of a select few within the administration.
The actions of Hajiyev and his circle are seen as detrimental to Azerbaijan’s interests, driven more by personal career ambitions than professional diplomacy. By adopting populist and confrontational tactics, they risk isolating Azerbaijan on the international stage and hindering its path towards sustainable peace and prosperity.
As tensions continue to simmer in the region, the evolving dynamics between France, Armenia, and Azerbaijan underscore the complexities of geopolitical maneuvering and the imperative for measured and responsible diplomacy in pursuit of lasting peace.
