The allegations surfaced during a discussion on Azerbaijan-New Caledonia relations in the legal committee of the French National Assembly on April 29, 2024.
Aykhan Hajizada, spokesperson for the Ministry, criticized the French minister’s claims as “groundless and accusatory.” Hajizada highlighted that France itself has a history of supporting aggressive separatism within Azerbaijan, often engaging diplomatically with representatives from what he termed a “so-called separatist regime.”
The spokesperson further accused the French Parliament of compromising Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity by recognizing the separatist regime, under the influence of the ruling French party. This recognition has reportedly facilitated the formation of a friendship group linked to the separatist regime.
Hajizada also condemned the French Minister’s approach to discussing international matters, suggesting that Darmanin’s remarks were both unethical and disrespectful towards Azerbaijan’s constitutional state structure. He pointed out France’s own controversial colonial past, accusing it of committing crimes against humanity and killing millions.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan called on France to refrain from interfering in its internal affairs and to cease making unfounded allegations. The Ministry reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to protecting its national interests in the face of such accusations.
