July 30, 2007 - 19:58 AMT
Matthew Bryza hopes Senate will choose Ambassador to Armenia soon
"The U.S. administration doesn't want to drag out absence of Ambassador to Armenia. The U.S. and Armenia have plenty of joint programs, including the IPAP," U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Mattew Bryza told reporters in Yerevan.

The U.S. attaches big importance to relations with Armenia, according to him.

"Appointment of mature diplomat Rudolf Perina the U.S. Charge d'Affairs in Armenia proves this republic's importance for the United States. I am hopeful the Senate will take a decision soon," Mr Bryza said.

Vice Ambassador Anthony Godrfey has acted as U.S. Ambassador since September 2006. Previous Ambassador John Evans was recalled because of public recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Currently, OSCE MG Co-chair in 2001-2004, former U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Rudolf Perina occupies the post.