PARIS - The Liberation Front of French Colonies has issued a forceful statement in response to the French Foreign Ministry's travel advisory for Azerbaijan, escalating a diplomatic confrontation over issues of colonialism and human rights.

According to Trend News Agency, the statement criticized the French government, particularly the actions of the outgoing Minister of the Interior and the Foreign Ministry’s travel warnings. The Liberation Front anticipates that these advisories might soon extend to an outright travel ban for French citizens to Azerbaijan, which they argue would infringe on human rights and the principles of free movement.

The group contends that these measures by France aim specifically to obstruct the efforts of the Baku Initiative Group, a body formed under the Non-Aligned Movement within the United Nations to combat global colonialism. The Liberation Front accuses France of attempting to suppress the Baku Initiative Group’s efforts, which it says are crucial in highlighting France’s diminishing international stature due to its colonial history and ongoing policies.

Furthermore, the statement references the plight of the Kanak people in New Caledonia as a stark illustration of France’s colonial impact. It accuses France of employing undemocratic tactics to maintain control over its overseas territories, ostensibly to preserve its status as a major naval power and to protect its vested interests.

The statement, undersigned by 14 leaders of political movements in French-controlled territories, signifies a concerted effort by the Liberation Front to rally international support and advocate for the independence of these regions. This move follows the inaugural congress held in Baku this July, where political leaders from various French colonies formalized the establishment of the Liberation Front and endorsed its charter, with representatives from 17 French and Dutch colonies signing the final declaration.