Don't get nervous, Mr. Ambassador: Arman Babajanyan addresses the French Ambassador in Armenia

Deputy Arman Babajanyan wrote on his Facebook page: "Don't get nervous, Mr. Ambassador. The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of France to Armenia, Jonathan Lacôte, has called on French citizens to return to France. In response to a comment regarding whether it is safer in France, he stated that, in terms of medical infrastructure, it is indeed safer. In another comment, the ambassador added, 'You are certainly free to prefer the Norq hospital,' attaching a sign of the Norq infectious disease hospital.

The French ambassador's public statement demonstrates a dismissive attitude toward Armenia's healthcare system and is generally disrespectful towards a friendly nation. This comes at a time when the number of COVID-19 infections in France far exceeds that in Armenia. Unlike the French ambassador, the Armenian authorities do not call the thousands of Armenian citizens in France to return to Armenia.

It is understandable that during these days, everyone's nerves are frayed. However, this does not justify disrespectful attitudes towards a friendly country from any official, especially a high-ranking diplomat. From a pure diplomatic protocol perspective, this is a case where the French ambassador to Armenia should be summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia for an explanation. It is clear, however, that during these days, our relevant authorities may refrain from taking such a step.

In any case, I urge the French ambassador in Armenia to publicly reconsider his statements, as they do not reflect the nature of the age-old friendship and the strong ties established between Armenia and France. Wishing everyone good health."