Turkey has had enough time since 1915 to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire, French President said in Yerevan.

“It Turkey came to recognize the dark pages of its history, both Armenia and France would eye it as a gesture of peace and reconciliation, which can never be based on denial,” Nicolas Sarkozy told a press conference.

“Should Turkey be strong enough to acknowledge the Genocide, France would not have adopted a bill criminalizing its denial. However, I am hopeful that the people and government of Turkey will be wise to recognize this crime against humanity,” he said, adding that he expects to see Armenian Genocide recognition by Turkey during his presidency.