U.S. Ambassador to Azerbaijan Matthew Bryza showed interest in state of historical monuments located in the Azerbaijani territory of Nakhchivan, including Armenian khachkars (cross stones) of Old Jugha.

Ambassador expressed regret that he failed to visit Jugha and see old burials but said he is hopeful he will see them during his next trip to the region. Bryza said he stands for preservation of all monuments, adding he repeatedly discussed the issue of mosques’ preservation during his visits to Armenia, RFE/RL reports.

Earlier U.S. Ambassador met with the head of Nakhchivan autonomy Vasif Talibov to discuss state of democracy and human rights.

Azerbaijani authorities have initiated extermination of the Armenian cross stones and other architectural monuments in the territory of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. An ancient Armenian cemetery was destroyed in 2005-2006.