Blinken holds talks with Azerbaijani president on ties, regional issues, Ukraine

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed a range of topics during a phone call Tuesday with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, including ties, regional issues and the Ukraine war, said the State Department.

Spokesman Ned Price said Blinken emphasized the continuing importance of the bilateral partnership between the US and Azerbaijan and the US commitment to promoting "a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future" for the South Caucasus region.

"Noting recent reports of escalation between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces, the Secretary called for the sides to show restraint and intensify diplomatic engagement to find comprehensive solutions to all outstanding issues," said Price. "He also stressed the importance of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Azerbaijan."

The two men also discussed the Russian war on Ukraine.

"The Secretary highlighted the US commitment, alongside other partners, to continue to hold Moscow and its supporters, including the Lukashenka regime in Belarus, accountable for the Kremlin’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine," Price added.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 691 civilians have been killed and 1,143 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war.

More than 3 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, according to the UN.