France Must End Provocative Statements, Says Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry

“France must put an end to provocative statements that undermine peace and stability,” stated Aykhan Hajiyev, the director of the press service of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, in response to comments made by French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna during an interview with France Inter public radio.

According to Hajiyev, the claims made by the French side regarding Azerbaijan blocking the road at the Lachin border checkpoint established in its 'sovereign' territory are completely unfounded, noting that ethnic Armenian residents are already able to cross freely in both directions.

He emphasized that Azerbaijan is ensuring the protection of its borders, and the crossing of those borders is conducted in accordance with the country's legislation and internationally accepted norms.

It is noteworthy that on April 23, Azerbaijan closed the Hakari Bridge connecting Armenia and Artsakh, which is located in the Lachin corridor under the control of Russian peacekeepers, subsequently establishing a checkpoint that is not stipulated in the trilateral agreements between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. Since December of last year, Azerbaijani eco-activists had closed the Shushi-Karin Tak section, which has now been replaced by security forces.