One of the challenges Richard M. Mills, Jr. must face as ambassador to Armenia is that 2015 will be the 100th anniversary of the genocide of Armenians at the hands of the Turks, Allgov.com reported.

Mills was careful not to use the word “genocide” in his confirmation statement, but noted that he would work toward an acknowledgement by Turkey of “a full, frank, and just acknowledgement of the facts so that both nations can begin to forge a relationship that is peaceful, productive, and prosperous.”

President Barack Obama had nominated Richard M. Mills, Jr. as his pick to become the next US ambassador to Armenia.  

In 2012, Mills went to Beirut as deputy chief of mission, where he served until his nomination. He has also worked in Paris, Dublin, London, Baghdad, and Islamabad. 

The diplomat also speaks French and Russian.