U.S. deeply concerned over unresolved conflicts in region
By Sara Rajabova
The United States voiced deep concern over the unresolved conflicts in the region.
Evelyn Farkas, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, and Eurasia, made the remarks at a press conference in Baku on September 18.
Farkas said unfortunately, all these conflicts have a common feature --the use of force and diplomacy hasn’t been effective so far.
"We constantly monitor this situation. The conflict in Syria and the flow of refugees once again shows that we must continue to work for the people more efficiently," she said.
She further noted that Azerbaijan remains a strategic ally of the U.S., and Washington has been a proud ally in the field of security for over 20 years.
Farkas underlined that Azerbaijan was one of the first countries that supported the United States after the September 11 events, adding that ever since, the country has supported the fight against terrorism.
"We have strong bilateral relations with Azerbaijan. The United States respects Azerbaijan`s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Azerbaijan is closely cooperating with the U.S. to stop the financial aid to extremist organizations. At the same time, we continue negotiations to strengthen our cooperation," she said.
Farkas also added that Azerbaijan and the United States continue to cooperate extensively to ensure security in Afghanistan.
Azerbaijan's military personnel have been a part of the ISAF contingent in the peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan, which began on November 20, 2002. The Azerbaijani peacekeeping contingent doubled in 2009.
Currently, some 90 Azerbaijani servicemen are part of the international forces securing safety in Afghanistan. Azerbaijan is among the eight partner countries that have approved an extension of troops in the country after 2014.
Azerbaijan has also facilitated the transport of logistical supplies in support of NATO operations in Afghanistan.
During her visit, Farkas held a meeting with Azerbaijan’s Deputy Defense Minister Ramiz Tahirov.
They discussed the political-military situation in the region, as well as military relations and bilateral cooperation in the fields of security and defense.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov also met with the U.S. official on September 18.
Azerbaijani and U.S. officials focused on cooperation in energy security, the fight against terrorism, and efforts to ensure peace and stability.
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Sara Rajabova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on
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