June 25, 2021 - 11:20 AMT
"Dear Nikol" – Macron congratulates Pashinyan on winning Armenia vote

French President Emmanuel Macron sent a letter to acting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to congratulate on his party's victory in the snap parliamentary elections held across the country on June 20.

Pashinyan’s Civil Contract party won almost 54% of the vote, while Hayastan (Armenia) bloc headed by second President Robert Kocharyan secured over 21% of the ballots. "I Have Honor" bloc too will get seats in the parliament.

Starting his letter with the greeting “Dear Nikol", Macron spoke about the exceptional relations between France and Armenia, which he said are based on historical ties between the two peoples, fueled by a special dialogue between governments, parliaments, local authorities, as well as civil society of both countries.

"The Armenian nation can count on the full support of France in their determination to strengthen democracy and the rule of law," Macron said.

"Economic cooperation between France and Armenia will continue to strengthen. Determined to continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the vulnerable segments of the population, France, together with your country, is helping to overcome the consequences of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia."

Macron also reaffirmed France's commitment as co-chair of the Minsk Group to the search for a comprehensive settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

"Rest assured that we are committed to resuming the process of political settlement, which is the only way that can guarantee lasting stability in the South Caucasus, as well as promote our common values of peace, solidarity and friendship with the peoples of the region," the message added.