Nikol Pashinyan and Jonathan Lacôte Discuss Recent Developments in the Region

Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received the Ambassador of France to Armenia, Jonathan Lacôte. Pashinyan congratulated the ambassador on the occasion of France's national holiday, emphasizing that the events that took place two centuries ago carry significant importance not only for France but for all of modern humanity. According to the acting Prime Minister, the revolution in France resulted in the formation of new relations globally.

"I am pleased to note that our countries’ relations are traditionally at a high level. We look forward to the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to our country, which will contribute to the further development and strengthening of Armenian-French multifaceted relations," Pashinyan stated, adding that he is in constant contact with President Macron.

The acting Prime Minister highlighted that Armenia highly appreciates France's efforts within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship and in strengthening stability in the region. Ambassador Lacôte expressed gratitude for the congratulatory words, adding that the revolution that took place in 2018 also created new realities for strengthening democratic values in Armenia. The ambassador congratulated the acting Prime Minister and the citizens of Armenia on conducting the snap parliamentary elections on June 20 at a high level, stating that these elections conveyed a strong democratic message and opened a new path for international cooperation, including with France.

Jonathan Lacôte added that active work is underway to organize Emmanuel Macron's visit to Armenia, which could provide a significant impetus to the development of Armenian-French relations and the implementation of joint projects in various fields. The ambassador emphasized that the French side is interested in developing cooperation with Armenia in energy, high technology, industry, education, and other sectors.

Pashinyan and Lacôte addressed the current events in the region. The French ambassador noted that they are closely monitoring the ongoing processes and that the French side will continue its consistent efforts in favor of stability, the activities of the OSCE Minsk Group, and the restoration of negotiations. The ambassador emphasized that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has not yet been resolved and that it could only happen after clarifying the final status of Nagorno-Karabakh.

At the same time, Ambassador Lacôte expressed condolences regarding the death of an Armenian serviceman from the gunfire of Azerbaijani armed forces in the Yeraskh area and deemed such actions and violations of the ceasefire unacceptable. Pashinyan added that Azerbaijan is doing everything to provoke instability in the region, as evidenced by the ongoing aggressive rhetoric from the highest levels there. The acting Prime Minister underscored the need for an appropriate response from the international community to the events taking place and the necessary measures to be taken.