YEREVAN — French President Emmanuel Macron urged Armenia to align its future with Europe during a state visit to Yerevan, accusing Russia of abandoning the country after the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war that led to Azerbaijan displacing tens of thousands of Armenians. Macron said Armenia's destiny lies with Europe and called for an alliance of independent states to uphold the rule of law.

"Many have long thought that Armenia's destiny is possible only under the patronage of Russia," Macron said. "We saw that Russia abandoned Armenia, we understood that greatest dreams are not reality."

More than 40 European leaders gathered in Yerevan under the banner of the European Political Community at Macron's encouragement. At the first summit between Armenia and the European Union on Tuesday morning, the EU offered visa and trade liberalisation. He said Armenia's economic growth was at 6% and pressed for regional integration extending beyond the country's borders.

He called for the opening of borders across the region. "The borders must be fully opened, including with Azerbaijan and Turkey, and they must also operate without restrictions with Georgia," he said. "For this, it is necessary to open the borders. I hope that our neighbours will show the same courage as you and follow the path of peace, democracy and prosperity."

He said lasting peace could not be imposed by the strongest or based on double standards or disrespect for the order established in 1945. France has one of the largest Armenian expatriate communities in Europe.

The visit included less formal moments. Macron strolled through the streets of Yerevan and performed Charles Aznavour's song La Bohème during a state dinner, accompanied by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on drums.

Pashinyan faces a re-election vote next month. Three pro-Russia or nationalist parties are contesting the vote and seeking to end his eight-year rule, accusing him of making too many concessions to Azerbaijan in an effort to win peace.