US Caucasus advisor believes real progress visible between Armenia, Azerbaijan VIDEO

The US State Department's Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Philip Reeker has noted that real progress has been made between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

A video message of Reeker, who has been in the Azerbaijani capital to meet with government officials and President Aliyev on November 28 and 29, has been shared by the US Embassy in Baku, in which the advisor gave the following speech:

"I’m delighted to be back in Baku and speaking to you today from the United States Embassy to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan’s story is one of potential. Each time I return I see the growth of the economy, the resilience of the people, and the opportunities for the whole South Caucuses region.

Secretary of State Tony Blinken believes strongly in the opportunity for peace and the potential of the South Caucuses. He asked me to return this week to the region because geography is important.

I’m here in Baku, going on to Tbilisi and Yerevan, where geography and history meet.

We know the process of peace is not easy, and I know the conflict has caused great hardship and suffering on all sides for far too many years.

However, I believe there is also hope. Hope for a peaceful future. Hope that momentum will be sustained in these peace negotiations and a new chapter of history can be made for a brighter future for all.

I’ve seen real steps, courageous steps, by both countries that can make a future and a durable peace.

As Secretary Blinken said both countries are working to a brighter more prosperous future for the South Caucasus.

The United States supports direct dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan and urges this momentum to continue into the new year.

Real progress has been made and peace brings the promise of a better, brighter future.

I recognize the courage, determination and leadership necessary to reach that destination".