Turkish ambassador to Azerbaijan deems passage of the bill criminalizing the Armenian Genocide denial by the French Senate as a non-democratic step and disrespect for the Turkish state and nation.
According to Hulusi Kılıç, by the decision France once again demonstrated its partial stance as a mediator in Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement, questioning its co-chairmanship in OSCE Minsk Group, 1news.az reports.
“France showed disrespect not only for the Turkish nation, but also for its own values. Turkey condemns the decision, welcoming Azerbaijan’s position on the issue,” the Ambassador stated.
On January 23 the French Senate passed the bill with 127 votes for and 86 against. On December 22, 2011, it was adopted by the French National Assembly. The bill will impose a 45,000 euro fine and a year in prison for anyone in France who denies this crime against humanity committed by the Ottoman Empire.
The bill is believed to take effect in France within two weeks, after it will be signed by President.
