Anne Derse: Return to Violence in Karabakh Issue Would Be tragedy

PanARMENIAN.Net - During her Senate confirmation hearing today, Ambassador-designate Anne Derse reiterated U.S. policy for a peaceful, mutually acceptable resolution to the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, stating that "a return to violence would be a tragedy." Ambassador-designate Anne Derse responded that if confirmed, she will work toward expanding and strengthening U.S.-Azerbaijan security cooperation and help promote democracy and governance. She said a peaceful settlement to the Nagorno Karabakh conflict is critical to achieving this goal and expressed hope that President of Armenia Robert Kocharian and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev will work together on this issue. She further stated that as Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the U.S. will also urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to remain engaged in the process and demonstrate political courage. Derse also expressed her commitment to work with both countries towards a peaceful resolution, reports the Armenian Assembly of America.