June 30, 2012 - 16:20 AMT
Richard Morningstar confirmed as U.S. envoy to Azerbaijan

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Richard Morningstar as ambassador to Azerbaijan, the Senate website reported.

Earlier President Barack Obama nominated Richard L. Morningstar to be the next ambassador to Baku.

The United States has not had an ambassador in Baku since the departure of Matthew J. Bryza in December 2011.

U.S. President Barack Obama appointed a career diplomat, former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Matthew Bryza as ambassador to Azerbaijan bypassing the Senate on Dec.29, 2010, which a few months blocked his nomination under the pressure of Senators Barbara Boxer and Robert Menendez, Trend News said.