There is a connection between Armenia and France, which is multi-layered: diaspora, associations, businesses. But there is also a desire to have a dialogue between all these actors through communication with the state on strategic priorities; that is, on how each of us, taking into account our priorities, can have an impact on the geopolitical situation. French ambassador to Armenia Olivier Decottignies stated this in his remarks at the 5th Armenia-France Decentralized Cooperation Forum Monday in Goris, Armenia.
“The fact that we have all come together in Goris now, almost two years after the humanitarian aid was sent by the French communities, initiated by the city of Paris and the Union of Armenian Associations [of France], means that we - both the state, French society, and organizations - continue to stand with you.
What we are building together is not just technical cooperation, not just friendship, but also real levers to have an impact on the situation, support Armenia, and act for peace,” said the French ambassador to Armenia Ambassador.
“Goris is a city that is at the heart of Armenia’s geopolitics and a city that hosted the entire [Armenian] population displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh; it was the first point. This is a city that builds peace in the region, Goris is a city that has always been at the crossroads, and its work has been aimed at building peace. Goris will become a crossroads again, and our presence here is very significant, I believe.
As for Armenia, decentralized cooperation with France, I believe, has acquired a truly strategic importance, which was due to the dictates of recent years. Our decentralized cooperation is carried out under the sign of solidarity.
Having a strategic approach does not necessarily mean thinking about big plans. From the moment you take into account the situation of the country, its strategic needs, there is no small topic or small plan.
I would like to mention one peculiarity. A position of coordinator of cooperation with Armenia has been opened in the French foreign ministry. It has no equivalent with other countries because there is this connection between Armenia and France, which is multi-layered," said the French ambassador to Armenia.
