The United States reiterates its support for lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus, stressing the importance of regional cooperation and diplomacy.

Washington supports efforts to promote peace and stability in the South Caucasus, considering them essential for the region’s prosperity. This message was conveyed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a statement marking Azerbaijan’s Independence Day. He welcomed the recent agreement on the text of a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

“We also support Azerbaijan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We recognize the country’s growing role as an energy supplier and a transport hub,” the statement from the U.S. Department of State read, as reported by 1lurer.am .

Rubio added that U.S.-Azerbaijan cooperation continues across the fields of security, energy, and economic development.

“Washington remains committed to protecting fundamental freedoms in Azerbaijan, including freedom of the press, in line with the country’s constitution. We look forward to deepening our cooperation and working together toward a peaceful, prosperous future for Azerbaijan and the entire region,” he stated.

On March 13, Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it had accepted Azerbaijan’s proposals regarding two previously unresolved articles of the peace agreement, confirming that the document is ready for signing. Armenia has expressed readiness to begin consultations on the timing and location of the signing. However, Baku has introduced new preconditions and stated it is premature to discuss dates.

The draft agreement consists of 17 points, 15 of which had already been agreed upon. The remaining two concerned renouncing international-level demands against each other and prohibiting the deployment of third-country representatives on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border.