YEREVAN.- A traditional demonstration and torchlight vigil to the Armenian Genocide Memorial kicked off in Liberty Square at 8pm (Photos).

Thousands of people, carrying national flags and banners calling on Turkey to recognize the Genocide and apologize for the cruel crimes perpetrated at the beginning of the 20th century, gathered in downtown Yerevan.

People are protesting against Turkey’s policy of denial of the first Genocide of the 20th century which was recognized by many states.

It is the 14th torchlight vigil held in Armenia. Similar actions will take place in Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, and other world cities.

Burning candles commemorating the Armenian Genocide victims appear in the windows of the houses.

The 1915 Armenian Genocide is the first genocide of the 20th century. Turkey traditionally opposes accusations of mass destruction of around 1.5 Armenians.  

The fact of the Armenian Genocide is recognized by many states. It was first recognized in 1965 by Uruguay. In general, the Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey has already been recognized by Russia, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Lithuania, Slovakia, Switzerland, Sweden, Greece, Cyprus, Lebanon, Canada, Venezuela, Argentina, and 42 U.S. states. Armenian Genocide was recognized by the Vatican, European Parliament and the World Council of Churches.