US State Department press spokesman Ned Price informed during the daily briefing that Ambassador Ricker is leaving his post.
"Today, we announce the retirement of Ambassador Philip Ricker as senior advisor for the Caucasus negotiations. He ends his tenure on January 5. His work in this position contributed to building peace in the complex Caucasus region. His contribution reaffirms the importance the United States places on bilateral negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan to establish a lasting peace, as well as our priority in preserving Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Back in August last year, when Ambassador Ricker was appointed to this position, we knew and expected that it would be short-term. His departure, however, in no way undermines the US commitment to the future of peace, security, stability, democracy and development in the Caucasus. The United States continues to be involved in bilateral contacts, including with the EU and the OSCE, to support direct dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan and to find solutions to issues related to or arising from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Ambassador Ricker's diplomatic career has focused on the most difficult challenge. We will miss him and wish him well in the next phase of his life."
