To The Honorable Marco Rubio
The Honorable Marco Rubio
Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C. 20520
Dear Secretary Rubio,
On behalf of the Azerbaijan Society of America (ASA), we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations on your confirmation as the new Secretary of State of the United States. Your leadership at this pivotal moment in history comes at a time when strong diplomacy and international cooperation are more important than ever.
As Americans of Azerbaijani heritage, we are great fans of President Trump’s “America First” agenda. We are certain that President Trump has every intention to resolve the regional conflicts raging around the world, including the long-standing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The United States, in promoting regional security and encouraging peaceful resolutions to longstanding conflicts cannot be underestimated. A robust relationship with Azerbaijan, both politically and economically, is essential for ensuring peace and stability in the wider region. We trust that your leadership will help guide the US to play an even greater proactive role in supporting Azerbaijan's efforts for a secure, peaceful, and prosperous future.
Closer collaboration with Azerbaijan is in the best interest of the US across multiple fronts, including energy security, regional stability, counterterrorism, and economic growth. It supports the Department of State’s mission to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous while contributing to a more stable and secure world. By fostering a strong partnership with Azerbaijan, the U.S. can enhance its strategic position in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Importance of Azerbaijan to the United States:
1. Strategic Location: Azerbaijan is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it a critical partner for U.S. interests in terms of regional security, energy, and geopolitical influence. It borders both Iran and Russia, and its proximity to conflict zones in the South Caucasus makes it an essential player in maintaining regional stability.
2. Energy Resources: Azerbaijan is rich in oil and natural gas reserves, particularly from the Caspian Sea. Its energy resources are key to diversifying global energy supplies, reducing dependence on non-democratic states, and contributing to the energy security of both Europe and the U.S. Azerbaijan plays a critical role in energy transit through pipelines like the Southern Gas Corridor, which helps ensure the flow of Caspian energy to Europe, bypassing Russia.
3. Counterterrorism and Regional Security: Azerbaijan has been a strong partner in counterterrorism efforts and regional security. It supports U.S. efforts in countering violent extremism and stabilizing Afghanistan, and its role in supporting NATO operations enhances U.S. security objectives. Azerbaijan’s strong military and cooperation in defense matters with the U.S. serve to deter external threats in the region.
4. Regional Diplomacy: Azerbaijan's position as a regional leader in the South Caucasus gives it the ability to influence key diplomatic initiatives. This includes its role in peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, its participation in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and its contribution to fostering cooperation with neighboring countries in the region. U.S. engagement with Azerbaijan helps promote stability in the broader Caucasus and Central Asia.
Azerbaijan is home to a sizable diaspora in the United States, with a rich cultural and community presence. Americans with Azerbaijani heritage are keen to support strong US-Azerbaijan relations and would favorably welcome a visit from the Secretary of State to Azerbaijan as a gesture of goodwill and recognition of their community's contributions. Such a visit would not only reaffirm US support for Azerbaijan but also reinforce the ties between the two great nations and the shared values of freedom, democracy, and economic prosperity.
In closing, we wish you all the very best for your continued success and a constructive and fruitful term in office.
Sincerely,
Azerbaijan Society of America
