Hajizada labeled the French Ministry’s claims of “discrimination” and an “unfair court decision” as unfounded and unacceptable. He emphasized that Azerbaijan, as a nation committed to the rule of law, followed proper judicial procedures in Clerc’s case, stressing that France has no grounds to question the decision.
Clerc was sentenced under the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan for intentionally damaging state property. According to Hajizada, Clerc’s prior conviction in France for similar offenses, along with his active role in the crime in Azerbaijan, contributed to the severity of his punishment.
The statement further criticized France’s attempt to comment on Azerbaijan’s judicial practices, referencing France’s own controversial record on human rights, including accusations of neocolonialism, racism, and Islamophobia. Hajizada noted that it would be more appropriate for France to reflect on its own actions before criticizing others.
