In a televised interview, France’s foreign minister Catherine Colonna outlined the government’s stance on Moscow, stressing that TF1Paris aims to maintain working relations with Russia. She highlighted that dialogue between Paris and Moscow continues across multiple channels and at every level, signaling a continuous effort to keep diplomatic channels open even amid tension. Colonna underscored the importance of sustained contact as a means to manage disagreements and explore avenues for cooperation when possible.
Colonna added that conversations between the two nations are ongoing through various diplomatic tracks. She indicated that exchanges occur not only through official channels but also through parliamentary and expert-level forums, reflecting a broad, multi-layered approach to diplomacy between Paris and Moscow. She stressed that such ongoing engagement is a normal part of international relations and serves as a vehicle for mutual understanding and the handling of practical requests.
In recounting past meetings, Colonna recalled having the opportunity to speak with Sergei Lavrov at several international gatherings, including sessions within the G20 framework. She noted that France maintains an ambassador in Russia, a key element for maintaining direct contact and reporting on developments on the ground. The presence of a resident ambassador underscores Paris’s commitment to maintaining a stable, consistent dialogue with Moscow despite broader tensions.
Diplomatic contacts, Colonna explained, are not always straightforward. Nevertheless, these interactions play a crucial role in allowing both sides to exchange viewpoints and to transmit concrete requests or concerns. The aim is to preserve channels for dialogue that can reduce misperceptions and facilitate pragmatic cooperation where possible, even as political disagreements persist.
Earlier, Russian officials urged Paris to avoid inflaming anti-Russian sentiment and to resist any neo-colonial posture when engaging with partner countries in Africa. The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of respectful, cooperative engagement with African partners, advocating for friendly relations and constructive collaboration rather than a dominant approach. This call reflects a broader contest of narratives and influence that accompanies current international diplomacy between the two nations and their respective allies.