In a recent interview with Colombian TV channel NTN24, Elnur Mammadov, the deputy head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Azerbaijan, expressed serious concerns over France’s supply of both defensive and offensive weaponry to Armenia. Mammadov, echoing the sentiments of Prime Minister Ali Asadov, warned that such actions pose a severe threat to the peace in the South Caucasus region. The Azerbaijani leaders have urged France to refrain from what they perceive as destructive behavior that might spark a new war with Armenia.
Azerbaijan’s criticism of France’s military support to Armenia goes beyond bilateral ties, reflecting a broader geopolitical context. Mammadov’s words underscore the predicament of a region wrestling with security concerns, where the intentions of external players like France are viewed as provocations. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of other nations, notably India, which has also been accused of ‘adding fuel to the fire’ by arming Armenia.
The president of Azerbaijan is not alone in his criticism. Turkey, a staunch ally of Azerbaijan, has also voiced concerns. President Erdogan has accused Paris of provocation, thereby escalating tensions in a region already on edge. The potential for renewed conflict emerges as a focal point of this diplomatic dispute, raising questions about the role of external actors in regional stability.
Israeli expert Dr. Mordechai Kedar has criticized the West for its double standards in dealing with Azerbaijan and Armenia. Despite Azerbaijan’s commitment to establishing peace with Armenia, the US Senate has urged President Biden to extend security support to Yerevan. Furthermore, the Senate passed a resolution calling on the United States to halt military aid to Azerbaijan. Dr. Kedar emphasizes the urgent need for the United States to engage in peace initiatives in both nations rather than favoring one over the other.
As the diplomatic dispute continues to evolve, world powers, including Russia and the United States, are calling for an immediate ceasefire in Nagorno Karabakh. The region has seen intense fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces, with both sides reporting hundreds of deaths. Amidst these developments, Azerbaijan has demanded Armenia’s withdrawal from Nagorno Karabakh and surrounding territories, a demand that Armenia has rejected. The international community is anxiously observing, wary of the violence escalating into a full-blown war with potential involvement of regional powers Russia and Turkey.
https://bnnbreaking.com/world/france/azerbaijan-criticizes-frances-arms-supply-to-armenia-escalation-of-tensions-in-south-caucasus/