The United States will continue to support the Armenian people’s democratic aspirations, sovereignty, and security, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said in a statement on the 31st anniversary of Armenia's independence on September 21.

Blinken said that Washington has witnessed Armenia's commitment to democratic values as well as to developing and strengthening the country’s human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice sector.

"We are proud to partner with Armenia in these areas as a reflection of our shared values. We will continue to support the Armenian people’s democratic aspirations, sovereignty, and security," the diplomat said in his message.

"We appreciate your willingness to support efforts to bring greater stability to the region. We offer our condolences for the lives lost in recent attacks and we remain committed to working with you and other parties to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict."

This year, the nation is marking the important anniversary while also recovering from the devastating war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) on September 27, 2020, as well as several unprovoked major offensives against Armenia.

The latest round of fighting began in the wee hours of September 13, when the Azerbaijani military attacked Armenian posts and shelled Armenian settlements both on the border and deep behind the frontline. At least 207 people are dead or missing as a result.