The debate on a bill criminalizing the Armenian Genocide denial kicked off in France’s National Assembly.

The bill is introduced by MP Valerie Boyer and supposes a year in jail or 45,000 euro punishment for those who will challenge or extremely minimize the fact of the 1915 Armenian Genocide officially recognized by France on January 29, 2001.

If approved, the bill will be submitted for French Senate’s confirmation.

The bill aroused anger and indignation of official Ankara. Turkish leadership voiced numerous threats, warning France against sanctions and recalling of the ambassador.