French President Francois Hollande dined with 8 celebrated historians: Colette Beaune, Michelle Perrot, Michel Winock, Benjamin Stora, Jean-François Sirinelli, Jean-Noël Jeanneney, Pascal Ory and Pierre Nora at his official residence in Élysée Palace.

Some expected for the meeting to affect the French leader’s stance on certain political issues, which, however did not happen.

During the event, Pierre Nora, well-known opponent of Genocide recognition, was attempting to influence Hollande into abandoning the bill criminalizing Armenian Genocide denial, Nouvelles d`Arménie said citing L’Express magazine.

The historian’s attempt was unsuccessful. A few days later, the president confirmed his plans for a new Genocide bill.