US Asks Parties to Consider How Best to Protect Rights and Security of Artsakh Population

Official Washington has asked Baku and Yerevan to consider how best to protect the rights and security of the population in Nagorno-Karabakh, according to the U.S. State Department, responding to a question from "Azatutyun" about whether issues related to Nagorno-Karabakh are being discussed in the ongoing Armenian-Azerbaijani negotiations in Washington.

The State Department spokesperson emphasized that the rights and safety of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh are central to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "The only way to find a lasting resolution to this protracted conflict that has claimed far too many lives is for these people to ultimately feel secure in their homes, and for their rights to be protected," stated the U.S. diplomatic agency, also adding that the United States supports a "long-term, sustainable agreement that can serve as a foundation for peace."

At the same time, the State Department emphasizes that the framework, nature, and content of the agreement to regulate relations should be determined by the parties. "Washington is honored to host the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan as they work towards peace. The United States remains committed to promoting a peaceful future in the South Caucasus. Direct dialogue between the parties is the key to achieving lasting peace and resolving issues. The framework and nature of the agreement to regulate relations is up to the parties. Our goal is to provide space for bilateral discussions, where they can engage in truly difficult work towards progress on lasting peace. What can be included in the agreement and what cannot is a matter for the parties themselves," the statement concluded.