Details added, previous version posted at 18:00
Azerbaijan, Baku, Jan. 19 / Trend V.Zhavoronkova/
It is very important for the U.S to have an ambassador in Azerbaijan, U.S Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Eric Rubin said at a press conference in Baku on Thursday.
"We hope he (ambassador) will be sent here as soon as possible," he said.
Talking about the former U.S. ambassador to Azerbaijan Matthew Bryza Rubin said that he is a talented diplomate, who lead U.S.embassy with tremendous energy, dedication, skills and talent. "President Obama sent him to Azerbaijan because he believed Bryza is the best person to represent the U.S. in Azerbaijan. Under our constitution we must respect the separation of powers in the confirmation of ambassadorial appointments. We are very sorry that Bryza did not stay longer and we determined to do everything we can the new ambassador to be sent here as soon as possible" Rubin said.
U.S. President Barack Obama appointed a career diplomat, former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Matthew Bryza as ambassador to Azerbaijan bypass the Senate on Dec.29, 2010, which a few months blocked his nomination under pressure of pro-Armenian senators Barbara Boxer and Robert Menendez.
In late December Bryza ended his mission in Azerbaijan and left for the U.S.
He expressed hope the U.S. embassy will continue its cooperation with Azerbaijani government.
Rubin said that 2011 was an exciting year for Azerbaijan, as the country was elected as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and became the winner of the Eurovision song contest.
He stressed that during his meeting with Azerbaijani officials, the support to Azerbaijan, in particular to the reforms, development of the country was shown.
"We expressed the progress in the energy sphere last year and expressed our interest in further development. US and Azerbaijan share many common challenges, interests and problems that we need to work on together," Rubin said
He also said that the U.S. is ready to work together with Azerbaijan.
"We expressed our strong support to Azerbaijan to reform, to develop its constitutional structures and to create fair society. I can bear a strong support for people and Americans and Azerbaijanis are working together toward these goals. We also discussed an impressive advances in energy development the past year and very hopeful signs of progress in this areas" he said.
In his meetings Rubin also expressed great appreciation for the important contribution that Azerbaijan has made to support the NATO and partner efforts in Afghanistan.
"Azerbaijan is playing a very important role together with all partners in helping to ensure that the people of Afghanistan are free to determine their own future. As the result of this cooperation our militaries have learnt to work together closely and I think they develop many areas our cooperation" he said..