ArmInfo.The US embassy in Azerbaijan responded to Hikmet Hajiyev's statement about the ambassador not visiting Shushi.
The US Embassy in Azerbaijan responded to the statement of Hikmet Hajiyev, assistant to the President of Azerbaijan. The latter complained that the ambassadors of France and the United States to Azerbaijan ignored the invitation of the Azerbaijani government to visit Shushi.
The spokesperson of the embassy, in response to the inquiry of the Azerbaijani service of "Voice of America", stated:
"The United States believes that through continued dialogue, continued engagement, including at the highest levels, we can do everything possible to help achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace. As we said earlier, there is no greater supporter of Azerbaijan's independence and sovereignty than the USA.
The employees of the United States Embassy have made many visits and continue to visit all Azerbaijan regions, including Aghdam, Zangilan, and Fuzuli. Embassy employees visit all regions of the country to establish relations with Azerbaijan on such important issues as security, healthcare, energy, and economic development."
In a statement on August 27, Hajivey said, in particular:
"But there are two states which do not attend the event, I would like to especially note them: the US and France. We cannot understand the reason for their non-participation here. Truly, the city of Shusha does not need the participation of these countries. They may come or may not. It means we will not invite them from now on.
"We accept this as a disrespectful attitude towards our territorial integrity. Because, according to those countries, the conflict is not over yet.
"Hajiyev said France and the USA, "had no stake in the settlement of the conflict.
"They wasted thirty years of our time. By not participating in this trip, they once again showed disdain."