U.S. state congressmen show positive stance on Khojaly tragedy

"As the United States and Azerbaijan continue to develop closer relations - relations which have proven immensely valuable to both nations, it is important to take the time to remember the Khojaly Massacre which took place in Azerbaijan 21 years ago, on February 25-26, 1992", said Gene Green, congressman of Texas, in the House of Representatives on February 25.

Newsweek described the victims of Khojaly as ``ordinary Azerbaijani men, women, and children,'' separate from the on-going military conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

According to his words, remembrance of the Khojaly Massacre has become nearly forgotten outside Azerbaijan's borders, despite the shocking nature of these events. "This is unconscionable for our country, which has always fought to safeguard the human rights of all people", noted Green.

He emphasized the support of Azerbaijan to US in connection with terrorist attacks of September 11, 2011. "Azerbaijan shared in our grief and pledged to stand by the United States as we brought the perpetrators to justice. True to their word, Azerbaijan has supported allied efforts against international terrorism by allowing unrestricted access to their territory for aircraft, troops, and supplies, as well as committing their own troops to fight alongside our own", noted the Congressman.

"Just as Azerbaijan has supported our nation in its time of need, so too must we not let the massacre of the 613 Azerbaijani men, women, and children drift into the dim memory of history.

I urge my colleagues to commemorate this terrible tragedy and continue our nation's support for the people of Azerbaijan, our partners in peace and prosperity for the Caspian Region", said Green.

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"I join my colleagues and people all over the world in recognizing the tragedy known as the Khojaly Massacre which occurred on February 26, 1992 in the small Azerbaijani town of Khojaly. The attack resulted in the massacre of 613 Azerbaijani civilians and is one of the most devastating acts of violence in the South Caucasus in recent history", said Congressman Tim Ryan in the House of Representatives of Ohio on February 25.

According to his words, the numerous casualties and acts of torture in the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan underscore the need for a political-rather than a military-solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. A fair and comprehensive settlement is the only effective tool to encourage stability, prosperity, and a lasting peace in the region.

"As co-chair of the Minsk Group, the United States remains committed to working with both sides to that end. With that goal in mind, we remember and mourn the 613 victims of Khojaly and work together to safeguard the human rights of all", said Ryan.


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