In a message to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of Azerbaijan’s Independence Day, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States supports a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Minval.az reports.

“We value our relationship with the Republic of Azerbaijan and greatly appreciate your partnership with the United States in combating terrorism, promoting energy security, and fostering peace with your neighbor...

The United States continues to support a sustainable peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. A peaceful resolution to the conflict will benefit the prosperity of the South Caucasus and create new opportunities for cooperation with the United States. Now is the time to commit to peace and herald a new era of prosperity for the peoples of the South Caucasus,” the message said.

*Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has repeatedly stated that the draft peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan is already agreed upon and awaits final signing. He has proposed that President Aliyev initiate talks to sign the agreed draft.

On March 13, Armenia’s Foreign Ministry announced it had accepted Azerbaijan’s proposals on two previously disputed articles, confirming the agreement is ready for signing. Armenia expressed readiness to begin consultations on the date and location. However, Baku introduced new preconditions and claimed it was premature to set a date for talks.*