Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism about the opportunity to reach a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. During a speech at the Brookings Institute, Blinken highlighted the potential for economic growth and engagement in the region if a peace agreement is achieved. The U.S. has been actively working towards this goal through diplomacy, in close cooperation with the European Union. Blinken believes that peace is feasible and in the best interest of both countries and the entire region. Additionally, the State Department announced that it will continue to engage with Azerbaijan, despite the ongoing issue of political prisoners in the country.