September 21, 2021 - 15:53 AMT
U.S. urges Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue amid mounting tensions

The situation on a key interstate road in Armenia's Syunik province makes the need for negotiations and discussions between Armenia and Azerbaijan more vivid, U.S. Ambassador to Yerevan Lynne Tracy said in an interview with the Public Television on Monday, September 20.

Tracy's remarks came amid months-long tensions on the border with Azerbaijan and the latter's incursion into the sovereign territory of Armenia since mid-May. In recent weeks, Azerbaijan has at least once blocked the road – which in the aftermath of the Second Karabakh War now passes through Azer-controlled areas – as well as started collecting money from Iranian truck drivers transporting goods to Armenia.

Citing the capabilities of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship, Tracy said the U.S. is also open to other platforms if it can play a role in resolving the situation. According to her, the demarcation and delimitation of the border is especially important.

The ambassador said the process is going to be a difficult one, which will take time and dedicated work to achieve the desired outcome.

Azerbaijani forces violated Armenia’s border in several sections in the provinces of Syunik and Gegharkunik on May 12 and 13 and are still refusing to withdraw their troops from the area. Since then, almost a dozen Armenian servicemen have been killed in Azerbaijan’s shooting, a dozen others have been wounded, while six troops were captured on May 27, although four of them have already returned home.