After more than 30 years of conflict, Azerbaijan and Armenia have received a historic opportunity to ensure peace and security. This was stated by Karen Donfried, Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, during a hearing in the Foreign Affairs Committee of the US Congress.

"After the September conflict, Azerbaijan and Armenia again focused on the peace process; in particular, they started working directly on this project, which is a historic step. The participation of the USA in this process is also unique," she said.

According to her, Secretary of State Blinken has repeatedly contacted the leadership of Azerbaijan and Armenia and organized a meeting of the foreign ministers of these countries.

"The Deputy Minister of Defense talked with the Defense Ministers of the two countries, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with the partners of these countries in Washington. All this again shows the US administration's commitment to ensure peace," said Donfried.

Donfried added that the US encourages Azerbaijan and Armenia to maintain this opportunity to continue negotiations.

"We do this in a bilateral, tripartite format and close coordination with the EU and other partners," she emphasized.

Donfried reminded that Philip Ricker, the US State Department's chief adviser on Caucasus negotiations, recently returned from the region.

"Supporting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia is the right step and is in the interests of our national security. After restoring peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, our cooperation will become even more significant," Donfried said.

She added that the peoples of the South Caucasus have the right to live in peace.

“This will allow the entire region to prosper and develop. The current US administration remains committed to supporting this worthy cause," Donfried said.

She also stated that the USA recognizes Russia's role and influence in the South Caucasus, stressing that Russian officials regularly meet with their Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts.