The conflict between Turkey and France over adoption of the bill penalizing the Armenian Genocide denial is gradually getting more and more strained.

To degrade France once again, first lady of Turkey Hayrünnisa Gül refused to invite French ambassador’s wife Sabine Bili to Ankara-hosted traditional reception of female ambassadors and ambassadors’ spouses in Ankara.

French ambassador to Turkey Laurent Bili called on Turkey to “remain calm”, pledging to do everything in his power for normalization of ties between the two countries.

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.