French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau addressed the annual dinner of the Council of Armenian Organizations of France (CCAF) on March 11 at Hôtel du Collectionneur in Paris. The event was attended by French government officials, political leaders, parliamentarians, diplomats, journalists, actors, and artists.

Retailleau emphasized that the Armenian cause transcends political divides in France, calling the gathering a "meeting of friendship and loyalty." Citing Anatole France, he described Armenia as "France's sister" and reaffirmed his personal commitment to the issue, as reported by the Artsakh Union.

Speaking about Armenian captives in Azerbaijan, Retailleau declared, "Tonight, my thoughts are with 23 individuals, including Ruben, who is risking his health and life for the values he believes in. I think of them and hope my words reach Azerbaijan’s borders so that they may be released."

He criticized the international community for lacking the courage to defend Armenia but noted that France has always stood by Armenia in its own way. The minister outlined the ongoing cooperation between the two countries.

Ruben Vardanyan, former State Minister of Artsakh, who is currently imprisoned in Baku on fabricated charges, sent an audio message through his family. He stated that he has always acted according to his moral principles and never betrayed them, even in the most difficult moments. "I knew what I was getting into, and I was prepared for even worse conditions. I am not a victim, and I do not seek pity—this was a conscious decision," he said.