François Alfonsi urges International action amidst alarming situation in Armenia

EFA MEP François Alfonsi spoke in plenary to  address the concerning situation in Armenia, Alfonsi underscored the gravity of the challenges facing the nation. Reflecting on the devastating impact of the 2020 war against Artzakh.

MEP Alfonsi a vocal advocate for justice and human rights, had tirelessly warned about the escalating Azeri aggression, predicting that the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh was inevitable. He lamented the international community's seemingly passive response to the blockade of the Lachin corridor, describing it as a crime against humanity that unfolded without adequate intervention. Alfonsi emphasized the loss of thousands of Armenian lives and the overwhelming military superiority demonstrated by Azerbaijan and its Turkish ally.

“Where are we today? Part of Armenian territory is already occupied by the Azeri army which now openly threatens to invade the south of the country.”

Today, part of Armenian territory is already under occupation by the Azeri army, which openly threatens to expand its invasion to the south of the country. Alfonsi highlighted the urgency of the situation and called for international action to rebalance the power dynamics between Yerevan and Baku.

Acknowledging the role of the European Union, Alfonsi MEP commended the EU's decision to send an observation mission to the conflict site. However, he stressed that strengthening ties between the EU and Armenia and supporting a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, while crucial, may not be sufficient to ensure lasting peace.

“At our insistence, the EU sent an observation mission to the site, the role of which is essential.”

“In its statements, the Commission suggests that we strengthen ties between the EU and Armenia and support a peace agreement with Azerbaijan. This is of course very necessary but it cannot be enough.” He added

The Corsican MEP argued that true peace could only be consolidated by addressing the existing power imbalance. He called for Armenia to receive access to the same funds that were allocated to Ukraine to resist the Russian invasion. These funds, Alfonsi argued, would be vital for supporting refugees, particularly those fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh in large numbers, and for bolstering the Armenian economy.

“Peace will only be consolidated if the balance of power between Yerevan and Baku is rebalanced.” He said.

Furthermore, Alfonsi urged the international community to provide sufficient military support and weapons to deter further aggression. He pointed to the proactive steps taken by French diplomacy as a positive example and emphasized the need for a collective effort to prevent further destabilization of the region.

As the situation in Armenia remains precarious, EFA MEP François Alfonsi's impassioned plea serves as a call to action, urging the international community to unite in support of Armenia's quest for stability, peace, and justice.