The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has publicly critiqued remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron during a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on February 21. According to Baku, Macron appeared to defend Armenia in the context of the Karabakh dispute, a stance that the ministry described as unilateral and biased in favor of Yerevan. The ministry’s message emphasizes that these comments disrupt the balance in a long-standing regional issue and undermine Azerbaijan’s position in negotiations. The ministry underscores that its assessment is grounded in the realities on the ground and the principles of international law cited in official Azerbaijani policy documents [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
In its statement, the ministry asserted that Macron’s remarks were not only unfounded but also represented an act of partiality toward Armenia. The text stresses that Azerbaijan has repeatedly demonstrated restraint and a commitment to peaceful avenues for resolving the conflict, whereas Azerbaijan views Armenia as the party that has exceeded the bounds of reasonable conduct in relation to the conflict zone [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
The ministry condemned what it called inappropriate references to the safety and rights of Armenians, explaining that any cross-border movements in the region have occurred without recourse to violence and in accordance with international norms. These points were framed as a reminder of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and the necessity for mutual respect among neighboring states amid sensitive territorial disputes [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
France’s policy, as described by the Azerbaijani authorities, was labeled insidious for its perceived goals of increasing regional tensions. The ministry warned that external political maneuvers influenced by a narrow set of regional interests could complicate prospects for durable peace and stability in Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding territories. The emphasis remained on maintaining a stable process grounded in international law and the legitimate rights of all peoples within the region [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
Earlier actions by France drew additional criticism, notably the delivery of armored equipment to Armenia, which Baku condemned as a provocation that could exacerbate militarization in the area. The ministry reiterated that such transfers undermine confidence-building measures and undermine regional routes to conflict resolution. It called on all parties to avoid actions that might escalate tensions and to focus on constructive dialogue and adherence to agreed frameworks [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
In presenting its position, Azerbaijan has repeatedly stressed the importance of balanced, principled engagement from all international partners. The ministry urged France and Armenia to disengage from policies that militarize the conflict and to align with mechanisms designed to ensure stability, peace, and the proper application of international law. The underlying message remains that coercive or selective interpretations of the past undermine trust and impede the search for a durable settlement in the South Caucasus [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
Public commentary from Yerevan and Paris has been met with a cautious response from Baku, which notes the need for careful framing of historical and security questions. The Azerbaijani side stresses that negotiations must respect Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, the return of displaced persons, and legitimate security guarantees that enable sustainable coexistence in the region. The ministry’s statements advocate for an approach that prioritizes comprehensive peace talks under internationally accepted formats and monitors the implementation of any agreed steps [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
Observers note that the series of exchanges underscores the sensitive nature of international diplomacy surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh. The Azerbaijani authorities appear determined to ensure that external comments do not distort the core objective of resolving the conflict through inclusive dialogue, verified commitments, and mutual assurances among all parties involved. The emphasis is on preventing any external intervention that might prematurely prejudge the outcome of negotiations and affect the trust necessary for a lasting settlement [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
As discussions continue, the Azerbaijani government remains focused on safeguarding its sovereignty while seeking constructive involvement from international partners. The overall stance calls for principled engagement, adherence to international norms, and a careful assessment of how external rhetoric aligns with the realities on the ground. The aim is to foster a peaceful, stable, and mutually acceptable path forward for all communities affected by the conflict [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
In related developments, analysts highlight that the situation in the South Caucasus continues to attract regional and international attention. The Azerbaijani side reiterates its commitment to a peaceful resolution and to working within established diplomatic frameworks. The hope expressed by Baku is that all actors will contribute to reducing tensions and facilitating a transparent, verifiable process that respects the rights and security concerns of all involved parties [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].
Looking ahead, the parties are urged to maintain dialogue options that emphasize diplomatic engagement, confidence-building measures, and a shared desire for stability in the region. The central message from Baku remains clear: progress requires careful, balanced diplomacy and a commitment to international norms that safeguard sovereignty, security, and stability for Azerbaijan and its neighbors [Citation: Azerbaijani MFA statement].