July 10, 2024
The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov today in Washington, D.C. on the margins of the Washington NATO Summit. Secretary Blinken discussed the progress made toward a durable and dignified peace agreement and encouraged further steps to finalize a deal as soon as possible. The Secretary also emphasized the importance of peace in promoting regional connectivity, which would benefit the entire South Caucasus region.
Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan And Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov Before Their Meeting
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. I’m so pleased to have my colleagues from Armenia and Azerbaijan here today. Ararat, Jeyhun, welcome. Over the last year, year and a half, Armenia and Azerbaijan have done very important work toward negotiating and concluding a peace agreement – one that is durable, one that is dignified, and one that would open extraordinary possibilities for both countries, the region that they share, and for their relationship with the United States. Throughout this process, the United States has sought to be helpful and supportive, along with the European Union and many colleagues in Europe.
Today is an opportunity to take stock in the progress that’s been made, what remains. But based on all of the engagements that we’ve had, including in recent weeks, I believe both countries are very close to being able to reach a final agreement, one that the United States would strongly, strongly support. So I’m very appreciative of today to, again, take stock of where we are and to see what more the United States can do to be helpful in helping you reach an agreement. Thanks to you both for being here.
Thanks, everyone.