Baku: The Temporary Commission of the Milli Majlis against Foreign Interference and Hybrid Threats has issued a statement concerning the ongoing activities of the French Republic against Azerbaijan, as reported by APA. This statement highlights a systematic effort by the French media to create a negative image of Azerbaijan, particularly following Azerbaijan's victory in the 2020 Patriotic War.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, the French side has allegedly gone beyond diplomatic norms, employing various means and platforms to create hybrid threats against Azerbaijan. These actions are seen as attempts to interfere in Azerbaijan's internal affairs, influence its foreign policy, and disrupt regional stability. The statement cites examples of biased positions in international institutions and media trends that undermine the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The commission outlined several areas where France's hybrid threats are evident. These include 'lawfare,' where legal pressure is applied through the adoption of resolutions by the French Parliament that target Azerbaijan's sovereignty. Although these resolutions have limited legal force, they aim to influence international opinion against Azerbaijan.
Furthermore, the commission noted anti-Azerbaijan activities in international organizations, such as the UN, EU, Council of Europe, and others. French state officials and diplomats are accused of using these platforms to isolate and discredit Azerbaijan, despite the country's adherence to international law.
The statement also highlights the systematic negative portrayal of Azerbaijan in French media. Nearly 40 anti-Azerbaijan articles and numerous television reports were published in just two months, indicating a concerted effort to spread biased and distorted information.
The commission criticized the French media for giving a platform to radical opposition figures from Azerbaijan, presenting one-sided narratives that undermine the country's stability. Additionally, it was noted that individuals of Azerbaijani origin in France are used as tools of hybrid threats to portray Azerbaijan as a "repressive regime."
The statement further accuses French officials, influenced by the Armenian lobby, of conducting coordinated anti-Azerbaijan activities. These actions are intended to violate Azerbaijan's sovereignty and strain bilateral relations.
The commission also mentioned campaigns by pro-Armenian groups and NGOs, supported by France, that spread fake news and disinformation about Azerbaijan. Such campaigns aim to damage Azerbaijan's international image and create distrust toward its state institutions.
Espionage activities by France in Azerbaijan were cited as another component of the hybrid threat strategy. These activities aim to influence regional developments and undermine stability within Azerbaijan.
Additionally, France's arms sales to Armenia and support for the European Union Mission in Armenia are seen as efforts to alter the military balance in the South Caucasus and obstruct the peace process.
In response, the Commission against Foreign Interference and Hybrid Threats has been implementing countermeasures to neutralize the impact of these threats. Despite these efforts, France's actions continue to be seen as unfriendly, prompting the commission to address the French people directly.
The statement concludes by emphasizing Azerbaijan's desire for friendly relations with France based on mutual respect and cooperation, while urging French society to recognize the damage caused by their government's actions.