Sarkozy’s foreign policy trip turns sour with Turkey

In what appear to be comments made for a domestic audience in an election year, the French president has managed to annoy both Turkey and Russia in the last 24 hours.

In Armenia Nicolas Sarkozy told the Turks off for brushing what he called the “genocide” of Turkey’s Armenians under the carpet. Turkey’s foreign minister was quick to react.

“I consider such remarks as political opportunism and unfortunately such political opportunism comes out of Europe whenever there is an upcoming election. It would be more beneficial for world peace if France confronts its own history first, especially its history with African nations,” said Ahmet Davutoglu.

Sarkozy has said Turkish failure to recognise the genocide is one reason why he does not support full Turkish membership of the EU.

Going on to Georgia Sarkozy then proceeded to accuse Russia of not repecting the terms of the 2008 peace deal which he brokered. He also called on the Georgians to improve their relations with Moscow.

He is also visiting Azerbaijan on a two-day tour of the Caucasus, where he will attempt to continue brokering talks with Armenia over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.

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