Blinken Advances Peace Talks with Armenia and Azerbaijan
In recent diplomatic engagements, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has reaffirmed American support for progress between Armenia and Azerbaijan towards a lasting peace agreement.
In a conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of advancing towards a durable and dignified peace, expressing U.S. support for Armenia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as Prime Minister Pashinyan's vision for a prosperous, democratic, and independent future.
Similarly, in a separate phone call with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Secretary Blinken commended President Aliyev for the recent agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan to use the 1991 Alma Ata declaration as the basis for border delimitation. Stressing the significance of this agreement in achieving a lasting peace, Secretary Blinken urged President Aliyev to maintain momentum in his engagement with Armenia. He reiterated the United States' willingness to support efforts towards peace and highlighted the importance of a robust U.S.-Azerbaijan bilateral relationship, including cooperation on energy, climate, and connectivity goals.
Furthermore, Secretary Blinken welcomed Azerbaijan's humanitarian gesture of releasing Gubad Ibadoglu to house arrest and called for his full and expeditious release. Opposition politician Gubad Ibadoglu was arrested and charged under Article 204.3.1 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code for alleged involvement in counterfeit activities. Despite his denial of ownership of the money found in his office, he faced extended pre-trial detention and subsequent charges under Article 167-3.1 for alleged dissemination of religious extremist materials.
Secretary Blinken also urged Azerbaijan to uphold its international human rights obligations by releasing other unjustly detained individuals.
These engagements reflect ongoing U.S. efforts to facilitate dialogue and cooperation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, while strengthening bilateral relations with both nations.
Source: Department Of State, April 28, 2024
