France, June 29 -- The French president has pledged firm support for Armenia's democratic leadership as the country tackles internal unrest and pursues reconciliation with its neighbours.

French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France's solidarity in support of Armenia's democracy on Sunday, as the country grapples with growing tensions between its government and the influential Apostolic Church.

In a message shared on X, Macron revealed he had spoken with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan just days after the arrest of around 15 individuals - including two archbishops from the Apostolic Church - accused of plotting a coup.

On Wednesday, Pashinyan strongly criticised what he described as a "criminal, oligarchic clergy" alleged...