PARIS (Realist English). The French authorities consider Armenia’s enemies to be their own enemies. This was stated by the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Fifth Republic Gerald Darmanin, speaking at the annual dinner organized by the Coordinating Council of Armenian Organizations of France (Conseil de coordination des organizations arméniennes de France, CCAF)
“The opponents of Armenia are the opponents of France,” Darmanin said.
Earlier, Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna expressed Paris’ readiness to participate in the new EU observer mission in Armenia: “This decision is very important, and France will be happy to participate in this European mission.”
On January 23, the EU Council announced the establishment of the European Union Civil Mission in Armenia (EUMA). The purpose of the mission is to promote stability in the border areas of Armenia, strengthen trust on the ground and provide conditions conducive to efforts to normalize relations between Yerevan and Baku.
“The establishment of the EU mission in Armenia opens a new stage in the EU’s activities in the South Caucasus. The EU will continue to support de—escalation efforts and undertakes to work closely with both sides to achieve the ultimate goal of sustainable peace in the region,” EU High Commissioner for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrel said.
The mandate of EUBAM is for two years. The operational headquarters of the mission will be located in Armenia. The civil operation will be commanded by Stefano Tomat, Managing Director of the Civil Planning Department of the European Service for Foreign Affairs. In the near future, the head of Mission will be appointed to lead operations on the ground.
