A Vision for Peace and Cooperation in the South Caucasus
The Honorable President Donald J. TrumpWhite House1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NWWashington, DC 20500Dear President Trump,
On behalf of the Azerbaijan Society of America and the broader Azerbaijani-American community, we extend our sincere gratitude and support for your invitation to the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia to meet at the White House. We wholeheartedly welcome this significant and hopeful development.
As proud Americans of Azerbaijani heritage, we deeply value the principles of peace, justice, and respect for sovereignty that have long defined American leadership. We are hopeful and prayerful that under your guidance, this meeting will lead to a lasting peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia one that will allow citizens of both nations to live in dignity, security, and harmony.
Mr. President, we respectfully urge you to engage with members of the U.S. Congress and Republican leadership to encourage a more balanced and fact-based approach to the conflict in the South Caucasus. For too long, certain members of US Congress have introduced legislations that misrepresents the complex realities on the ground, particularly with regard to the Karabakh region. These narratives not only distort facts but also undermine sincere efforts toward reconciliation and regional stability.
The recent legislation introduced by the Republican Senator Josh Hawley and the Republican Representative Riley Moore is promoting one-sided narratives, efforts should focus on supporting long-term peace and coexistence in the South Caucasus, in accordance with international law and mutual respect for sovereignty and human dignity.
Azerbaijan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to multiculturalism and religious tolerance. The country is home to diverse ethnic and religious communities including Jews, Christians, and others who live peacefully and with full rights. Armenian residents in the region were offered reintegration and equal citizenship opportunities, consistent with Azerbaijan’s constitutional order.
As you know, the Karabakh region is internationally recognized as the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan. The events of 2023 were not an act of “ethnic cleansing,” but rather the lawful restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity after decades of illegal occupation by Armenian forces. Promoting peace should mean recognizing international law and encouraging mutual respect between nations.
Mr. President, you want peace. The people of Azerbaijan and Armenia want peace. We all want peace. US Congress also should support this. We deeply believe that your leadership can help guide the region toward a future of cooperation rather than conflict.
Thank you for your continued dedication to American leadership on the world stage. We are grateful for your attention to this important matter and stand ready to support any and all efforts toward a peaceful resolution.
With deepest respect,
Azerbaijan Society of America
