YEREVAN. – Genocide’s general denial is worse than its specific denial, yet specific denial is unacceptable, too, French President Nicolas Sarkozy stated during his joint press conference with Armenia’s President Serzh Sargsyan, in capital Yerevan on Friday.      

Sarkozy also considered important that Turkey recognize the Armenian Genocide. In his words, France and Armenia would regard such step as a gesture for peace and reconciliation. “Long-lasting peace cannot be combined with denial of sufferings and historical facts. But if Turkey does not take that step and it continues denying the facts, France could resort to other measures toward criminalizing Genocide’s denial,” Sarkozy noted.        

He mentioned at the same time that France cannot speak to Turkey with ultimatums. “If you can read between the fine lines, you would understand that time is not endless, and, ever since the 1915 Genocide, a fairly long time has passed for reflection,” Sarkozy said.       

He also expressed a hope that Turkish society and authorities would be prudent.

The French President considers Turkey a unique bridge between the East and the West, but he does not see that country within EU in the future, as well.