News - Armenia's Crossroads of Peace project must be implemented by respecting countries’ sovereignty, France FM says

Armenia can play a very important role in the project of connecting Europe and Asia. This was stated by the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Stephane Sejourne, at the press conference held in Yerevan on Monday morning. Speaking positively about the Crossroads of Peace project presented by Armenia, the French FM emphasized that it can be implemented by taking into account and respecting the sovereignty of countries, after which Armenia can play a very important role in the project of connecting Europe to Asia. Also, Sejourne noted the development of cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral agendas. In particular, he pointed out the readiness of France to continue promoting the deepening of relations between the EU and Armenia, reminded that the dialogue and the liberalization of the visa regime have already begun, and a decision was made to provide assistance to Armenia through the EU European Peace Facility. Also, Sejourne noted the aid of 29 million euros in the humanitarian sector and to refugees in Armenia. Furthermore, the FM of France confirmed the intention of his country to further deepen relations with Armenia in the defense sector because "Armenia must be able to protect its population." Moreover, as per Stephane Sejourne, relations in this sector should develop with respect for sovereignty and without any escalation of tension. To note, the cooperation between Armenia and France in the defense sector causes a nervous reaction in Azerbaijan.