The connection between Azerbaijan and New Caledonia has come to light recently, with accusations of Azerbaijani interference in the region. The Minister of Interior and Overseas France accused Azerbaijan of interference in New Caledonia, citing a memorandum of cooperation signed between an independentist leader in New Caledonia and the Azerbaijani Parliament. The agreement was met with criticism from loyalist politicians in New Caledonia. This accusation of interference is not new, as Azerbaijan has been known to engage in campaigns of denigration on social media against countries that do not align with their interests.
The tensions between Azerbaijan and France have been escalating, particularly after France sided with Armenia during the conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. This decision led to strained relations between Paris and Baku, resulting in the expulsion of diplomats and other retaliatory measures. The creation of the Bakou Initiative Group (BIG) in 2023 further highlights Azerbaijan’s efforts to combat colonialism and neocolonialism, framing their actions as support for oppressed regions. The recent accusations of interference in New Caledonia indicate a broader strategy by Azerbaijan to influence political decisions in regions where they perceive a colonial presence.
The accusations of Azerbaijani interference in New Caledonia have raised questions about the motivations behind such actions. The Minister of Interior and Overseas France did not provide specific evidence to support his claims of Azerbaijani interference, leaving many to wonder about the true extent of Azerbaijan’s involvement in New Caledonia. The signing of the memorandum of cooperation between a New Caledonian leader and the Azerbaijani Parliament has generated controversy and divided opinions among local politicians in New Caledonia.
The allegations of Azerbaijani interference in New Caledonia are part of a broader pattern of behavior by Azerbaijan to exert influence in regions where they see an opportunity to further their interests. The establishment of the Bakou Initiative Group (BIG) reflects Azerbaijan’s strategic approach to supporting causes that align with their anti-colonial narrative. The accusations of interference in New Caledonia come in the context of heightened tensions between France and Azerbaijan, following France’s support for Armenia during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
The accusations of Azerbaijani interference in New Caledonia have sparked a debate about the implications of foreign involvement in the region’s political affairs. The signing of the memorandum of cooperation between a New Caledonian leader and the Azerbaijani Parliament has underscored the complexity of international relations and the various actors involved in shaping political decisions in smaller territories. The ongoing tensions between France and Azerbaijan highlight the broader geopolitical dynamics at play, with implications for the autonomy and sovereignty of regions like New Caledonia.
