US Senators Urge Azerbaijan and Turkey to Accelerate Peace and Normalization Process

The opening of borders with Turkey will boost Armenia's economy and allow for the free movement of people, said US Senator Roger Wicker during a joint press conference with Armenian National Assembly President Alen Simonyan. According to him, he was once again convinced that Armenia is situated in a challenging neighborhood, facing challenges from all directions.

“During our meeting, it was pointed out that the authorities of this country want to reopen the borders with Turkey to enable the free movement of people and to boost the economy in Armenia. We stand by you on this matter,” Wicker said. He stated that the ultimate goal is to achieve peace and security in the region.

“It is now clearer than ever that the Armenian government and people want to see a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan concluded and signed, completing the demarcation and delimitation, and releasing prisoners of war,” he added.

Maryland Senator Ben Cardin declared that the US wishes to advance the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He noted that the US has a variety of tools that it can leverage in its relationships with different countries around the world.

“I do not want to specify how we can use that mixed toolbox, but the US is interested and wants to push forward the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We are working with both the executive and legislative branches to ensure our voices are heard,” he stated.

Chairman of the Helsinki Commission Joe Wilson announced that they will defend the inviolability of Armenia’s borders, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He urged Azerbaijan to expedite the signing of the peace treaty, and Turkey to improve relations with Armenia.

“I am very inspired by the people of Armenia, you have faced such situations for hundreds of years and have been able to emerge successfully from those situations, and I believe that ultimately there will be stability here in the South Caucasus, benefiting Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey,” Wilson said.