The situation in Bursa remains stable, and the local residents are surprised to see the Armenian delegation under bodyguards’ permanent supervision. Many of the residents say that, despite being well organized and ardent football fans, Bursa residents are hospitable and feel hurt because the Armenian guests are being “isolated from them.”

The NEWS.am correspondent is reporting on the situation on the eve of a football match between the Armenian and Turkish national teams.

Azerbaijanis, as well as the Turkish nationalists supporting them, are trying to disturb the peace in the city. Before the Armenian journalists arrived, 30 people held a rally in that place, with Azerbaijani flags in their hands. As soon as the Armenian reporters arrived, the policemen ended the rally. After talking with the personnel of the shops and other trade outlets, which had hung out Azerbaijani flags, we found out 90% of them were Azerbaijanis.

Some excitement in Bursa was caused by the Governor’s statement — Şahabettin Harput said waving Azerbaijani flags at the stadium would not be banned. He pointed out that anyone can watch the Armenia-Turkey match, with flags of any country in their hands, but with peaceful and friendly motives.

Earlier, Governor Şahabettin Harput stated that the Armenia-Turkey football match is just a sporting event, nothing extraordinary to give rise to an Azerbaijani-Turkish alliance. At his meeting with Turkish and Armenian journalists yesterday, the Bursa Governor pointed out the historic importance of the game. He said it will be a landmark in both the Armenian-Turkish and Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. Yesterday evening the Bursa Governor send presents to all the members of the Armenian delegation – candied chestnuts, books about Bursa, his visiting cards, etc..

Bursa residents have repeatedly arrived at the Ataturk stadium to purchase tickets, but have not so far succeeded. The Bursa Governor said that the tickets will be distributed free of charge – among the select few. It is an attempt to control the situation and prevent any incidents. Only 15,000 tickets will be distributed though the stadium is designed for 35,000. The Bursapor (Bursaspor Kulübü) fans are discontented with the Governor’s decision.

The fans rallied near the ticket offices, but were dispersed by the police.

The local residents’ favorable attitude to the Armenian delegation is evidence they realize their being happenstance witnesses to a historic event.