Obama’s a smart man, and using Congress’ recess, he has had a strong influence on life here in Azerbaijan, whether he knows it or not. After over a year, Azerbaijan finally has an ambassador from the United States, Matthew Bryza. Bryza’s nomination for the post had been stalled out in Congress due to several senators’ reservations about Bryza’s past. In particular, they are concerned because the Armenian lobby is concerned about Bryza’s past. They claim he will not be able to act impartially.
However, on this side of the NK Zone, this appointment is a perfect fit. Bryza has worked in the Caucasus for a number of years, and is considered by those people in the embassy that I have heard speak on the matter, including the charges d’affairs, Adam Sterling, the best person for the job.
Azeris also welcome Bryza’s appointment. Given his experience in the Caucasus, the government is familiar with him and thinks of him positively.
But even if it wasn’t Bryza, the fact that there is an ambassador is a huge thing. All Azeris knew about the absent post, and saw it as potentially a slight against the country. Filling the position shows everyday Azeris that the United States cares about relations with the country. The strength of the Armenian lobby in the United States is also something the Azeris are aware of and naturally dislike. When the Soviet Union collapsed, and the Caucasus countries gained independence, the majority of Azeris who were abroad returned home, while Armenians stayed abroad. Azerbaijanis want their story to get out, the way the Armenians have been able to. If nothing else, though, they’ll settle for people recognizing that they have a side, and a US ambassador is just what the hakim ordered.
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