On December 7, the Judiciary Committee of the French National Assembly has passed the bill on criminalization of the Armenian Genocide denial introduced by MP Valerie Boyer (UMP).

The bill envisages a 45,000 euros fine and a one-year imprisonment for the denial of the Armenian Genocide, which was recognized by France back in 2001.

During a visit to Yerevan in October 2011, French President Nicolas Sarkozy has urged Turkey to recognize the Genocide.

“Turkey has had "enough [time] for reflection since the mass killings began in 1915. If Turkey revisited its history and looked face-to-face at the shadows and the light, it would be sufficient to recognize the genocide. If Turkey does not do this, then without a doubt it will be necessary to go further," Sarkozy said.