Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan And Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov Before Their Meeting

SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good morning, everyone.  I’m so pleased to have my colleagues from Armenia and Azerbaijan here today.  Ararat, Jeyhun, welcome.  Over the last year, year and a half, Armenia and Azerbaijan have done very important work toward negotiating and concluding a peace agreement – one that is durable, one that is dignified, and one that would open extraordinary possibilities for both countries, the region that they share, and for their relationship with the United States.  Throughout this process, the United States has sought to be helpful and supportive, along with the European Union and many colleagues in Europe.

Today is an opportunity to take stock in the progress that’s been made, what remains.  But based on all of the engagements that we’ve had, including in recent weeks, I believe both countries are very close to being able to reach a final agreement, one that the United States would strongly, strongly support.  So I’m very appreciative of today to, again, take stock of where we are and to see what more the United States can do to be helpful in helping you reach an agreement.  Thanks to you both for being here.

Thanks, everyone.