News - US considers meeting between Armenia, Azerbaijan leaders important

The United States believes it is important that Armenia and Azerbaijan reach a lasting peace agreement. Matthew Miller, Spokesperson of the US Department of State, noted about this during Monday’s Department press briefing. “It’s something that we have pushed for some time—for some time. It’s something that we have said publicly we believed was in reach if both sides were willing to make difficult compromises. Obviously, we have not seen that happen in the last few months. I do note that [Azerbaijani] President Aliyev and [Armenian] Prime Minister Pashinyan have announced that they are going to meet next week. We think it’s important that they meet and ultimately bridge the divide between their two countries," he added. According to Miller, the US is concerned about the current situation. "I will say that in terms of what we think is important, it’s, number one, that the ceasefire that exists now be maintained, that there is no further military action; number two, that the humanitarian needs of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh are addressed; and number three, that Azerbaijan and Armenia reach a lasting peace agreement," he said. "With regard to the humanitarian situation from the ground, the population of ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh should be able to remain in their homes in peace and dignity, with respect for their rights and security if they choose to do so. Those who want to leave and return should be allowed safe passage overseen by a neutral, independent third party. And Azerbaijan has a responsibility to protect civilians and ensure the humane treatment of all, including those it suspects of being combatants," added the US State Department spox.