Real Progress Achieved in the Normalization of Armenia-Azerbaijan Relations: Riker

“I was pleased to visit Baku and speak with you about the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan. The potential of Azerbaijan is evident. Every time I return here, I notice the growth in the economy and opportunities for the entire South Caucasus region,” said Philip Riker, the U.S. State Department’s Chief Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations, in a video message during his visit to Azerbaijan.

“Recognizing the importance of geography, he (Antony Blinken) asked me to visit this region. Now I am in Baku, and from here I will go to Tbilisi and Yerevan. In this region, geography meets history. We know that the peace process is not easy. I understand that the conflict has caused significant difficulties and suffering for both sides over the years. But I believe there is hope for a peaceful future. I hope the momentum gained during the peaceful negotiations can be maintained and open a new chapter in history to guarantee a brighter future,” he added.

The diplomat noted that he currently sees real and courageous steps from both countries looking toward the future and desiring to achieve sustainable peace. He stated that there has been real progress in the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.