The French president has pledged firm support for Armenia’s democratic leadership as the country tackles internal unrest and pursues reconciliation with its neighbours.
French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s solidarity in support of Armenia’s democracy on Sunday, as the country grapples with growing tensions between its government and the influential Apostolic Church.
In a message shared on X, Macron revealed he had spoken with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan just days after the arrest of around 15 individuals – including two archbishops from the Apostolic Church – accused of plotting a coup.
On Wednesday, Pashinyan strongly criticised what he described as a “criminal, oligarchic clergy” allegedly aiming to destabilise the Armenian state and seize power.
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Macron used the call to express his firm backing for Pashinyan’s “courageous efforts” to pursue peace with Azerbaijan and to normalise ties with Turkey.
“Peace and the opening of borders would mark a significant breakthrough for the entire region – and could serve as an inspiring example to others,” he said.
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Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
In a notable diplomatic step, Pashinyan visited Turkey on 20 June to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, continuing discussions on regional normalisation.
Turkey has long been a staunch supporter of its close ally Azerbaijan in the decades-long dispute with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Baku regained control of parts of the enclave during a conflict in autumn 2020 and launched a swift offensive in September 2023, which led to over 100,000 Armenians fleeing the region.
