Central Valley congressman on diplomatic mission in Armenia

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Representative Jim Costa is traveling overseas to Armenia Monday to help mediate conflict in the region.

Right now, Armenians and Azerbaijanis are fighting over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, a place where tensions have recently flared according to state media.

That region is occupied by Armenian forces but surrounded and claimed by Azerbaijan.

Russia is leading the international effort to reach a peace deal and avoid violence.

Costa says he's been a longtime advocate and ally to Central Valley Armenians and hopes to help bring peace in their homeland.

"I'll be meeting with the President of Armenia and members of the Parliament to determine how we in the United States can help facilitate a successful conclusion to these negotiations," Costa said.

Costa said he'll spend four days abroad meeting with dignitaries and traveling.