Washington has asked Baku and Yerevan to consider how best to protect the rights and security of the people of Artsakh, according to the U.S. State Department.

The State Department spokesman stressed that the issue of the rights and security of the people of Artsakh is a key issue in the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

“The only way to find a lasting solution to a conflict that has cost too many lives and lasted too long is for these people to finally feel safe in their homes and for their rights to be protected,” the U.S. State Department said, adding that the U.S. support is “a stable, long-term agreement that can lay the foundation for peace.”

At the same time, the State Department stresses that the scope, nature and content of the agreement to regulate relations must be decided by the parties. – “Washington is honored to host the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan as they work toward peace. The United States remains committed to promoting a peaceful future in the South Caucasus. Direct dialogue between the parties is the key to achieving lasting peace and resolving issues.”