US Technical Assistance Suggested: Riker on the Peace Treaty Between Yerevan and Baku

Although the US and the EU are promoting negotiations between the parties, the core essence of these discussions is led by the representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan themselves. This was stated by Philip Riker, the US Secretary of State's senior advisor on Caucasian negotiations and co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, during a discussion in the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee.

According to Riker, the United States is involved in the peace process through partners such as the EU as well as international organizations like the OSCE. “As with any peace negotiations, these are complex discussions that center around issues layered in history. However, the pace and depth of the current discussions show a clear potential for resolution that could end decades-long conflict. Of course, there is still much to be done by both governments, including investigating claims of human rights and international humanitarian law violations, holding the perpetrators accountable, ceasing inflammatory rhetoric, and promoting reconciliation,” said Riker.

The diplomat also noted, “Direct negotiations initiated by both countries, which are conditioned by their interests rather than those of external actors, hold the greatest potential for long-term success. We will do everything we can to support those efforts. The Secretary of State not only offered his advisory assistance but also suggested US technical support ranging from border delimitation to transportation route planning.”