Pentagon hopes to prevent violence in Nagorno Karabakh

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates believes that efforts must recommence "to prevent violence in Nagorno Karabakh," Itar-Tass quoted a U.S. Department of Defense official as saying after his meeting with the Russian defense minister. The official preferred to remain anonymous.

"The sides held a brief discussion about the recent tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia," the official said, adding that "we must resume efforts to prevent violence in Nagorno Karabakh."

The official noted that the sides discussed a wide range of issues in the Caucasus.

"Gates emphasized the need to observe the ceasefire agreement signed in August 2008 and called on Russia side to be more transparent regarding their armed forces in the region," he said.

The official added that "a brief discussion on the Middle East, including Iran was also held. Gates, in particular, expressed his gratitude for the cooperation in the sanctions against Iran."


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