French government set to discuss gay marriage bill November 7, 2012 - 15:43 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Plans to legalize same-sex marriage and allow gay couples to adopt are to be discussed at a meeting of the French Socialist government, BBC News reports. France already allows civil unions between same-sex couples, but it was a campaign pledge of President Francois Hollande to extend their rights. He is now facing tough opposition to the idea. This is one the most divisive issues he has encountered since he was elected in May. Once the draft law has been presented to Hollande's cabinet, it will be debated by the French parliament in January. More than 1,000 mayors have signed a petition against the proposed changes, there have been protests in 75 towns and cities, and one opposition politician has even suggested that legalising gay marriage could lead to polygamy. Over the weekend, the head of the French Council of Bishops described gay marriage as "the ultimate deceit". And there are also divisions within the government, with some arguing that the law should go even further by offering state funding for artificial insemination for gay couples. At present only married couples - not civil union partners - can adopt in France. A number of European nations, including Germany, Sweden and the UK, already allow gay adoption.   Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 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".   Partner news |  Latest news Armenia, Turkey discuss restoration of historic bridge  The meeting took place on May 17 in Ashgabat on the sidelines of an international conference of ministers of culture.India wants Armenia’s proposals on use of Chabahar port India is expecting proposals from Armenia regarding the use of Chabahar port in Iran, Indian ambassador says.EU welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan “progress” The EU has welcomed “progress” made in the framework of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation process.Belarus opposition leader slams Lukashenko for Karabakh trip Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has harshly criticized the visit of Lukashenko to Karabakh. |
