U.S. ready maximum to assist in peaceful settling Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: Department of State

"Our president had also made clear that the United States stands ready to do all what can to help resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, working in partnership with our Minsk group partner," Bryza told Trend News in a telephone conversation from Washington.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan since 1992, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and 7 surrounding districts. Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France, and the U.S. - are currently holding the peace negotiations.

"We have an historical opportunity to advance peace and prosperity throughout the Caucasus region," Bryza said.

Bryza said President Obama has made clear his support for normalization of Turkey - Armenia relations. "Normalizing these relations can favor breakthrough in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement," Bryza believes.

/Trend News/