France to witness first same-sex wedding amidst protests May 29, 2013 - 15:36 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The French city of Montpellier will witness history Wednesday, May 29 when its mayor officiates the nation's first same-sex wedding in front of hundreds of guests, CNN reported. Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau will exchange their vows at a ceremony in the southern city, watched by some 500 guests seated on brightly colored chairs. Autin, 40, is the head of the region's Lesbian and Gay Pride association -- and his wedding to Boileau, 30, marks a big step forward for same-sex equality. While France has allowed civil partnerships for some years, controversial legislation allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt was signed into law by President Francois Hollande 10 days ago. Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, Minister of Women's Rights and a government spokeswoman, will be among those attending the landmark ceremony, reflecting the governing Socialist Party's support for same-sex marriage. Montpellier's mayor, Helene Mandroux, also belongs to the party. However, the move has prompted fierce opposition from many social conservatives and the Catholic Church, with hundreds of thousands of people joining large scale protest marches in Paris over recent months. While no official demonstrations are planned, there are concerns protesters may gather in Montpellier on Wednesday. About 200 police officers will be mobilized around the city in case of trouble, Montpellier police said.   Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.   Partner news |  Latest news Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty  Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty.Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza.Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations.Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |
