France Calls for Resumption of Political Processes Between Armenia and Azerbaijan

France calls for the resumption of political processes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, emphasizing that it should be fair and not take place under pressure or influence. This was stated by Jonathan Lacot, the French ambassador to Armenia, during a press conference marking the completion of the archaeological excavations in Erebuni, as reported by Armenpress.

"At this moment, while we are holding this event (press conference on the completion of archaeological excavations in Erebuni), military operations are ongoing in the Gegharkunik region of Armenia. Naturally, we think about the fallen soldiers and their families. We also recognize that all of this is happening in a context where there is a deterioration along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. These are events that raise concerns in France because they also represent violations of the ceasefire, which subsequently leads to a worsening security situation at Armenia's borders. In this context, France calls for the resumption of political processes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, but this process must be fair and should not take place under pressure or influence. Of course, there are communications within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group involving France, the USA, and Russia, to contribute first and foremost to calming the situation. When the time comes, we will also contribute to the resumption of the political process," Lacot said.

The ambassador noted that France's primary concern is the border situation of Armenia. "Naturally, this is on our mind, and we do not forget about the other points in the trilateral statement of November 9, regarding which there are still issues, particularly the point concerning the release of all prisoners of war held in Azerbaijan," the ambassador added.

Azerbaijani Armed Forces units again provoked the situation and violated the ceasefire at approximately 03:40 on July 28, leading to local battles in the northeastern section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. As of 08:30, the Armenian side has reported three fatalities and three additional soldiers wounded. Azerbaijani units, which initiated the attack towards Armenian positions, were pushed back to their original positions by 09:20, incurring losses. A ceasefire agreement has been reached through the mediation of the Russian side.