French Senate’s passing the bill penalizing genocide denial proved that the Armenian Genocide recognition process cannot be halted, according to Regional Studies Center director.

As Richard Giragosian told a news conference in Yerevan, “Senate decision came as an utmost pressure on Turkey, with official Ankara’s response drawing the international community’s attention to the issue.”

As the expert forecast, Turkey will return to “football diplomacy” earlier than expected in view of its weakened position over Genocide issue as well as no-win issues in the country’s foreign policy.

“Turkey, however, would be advised remember: Armenia’s patience is all but unlimited – the country won’t always abide by “no preconditions” policy,” the expert concluded.

On January 23, the French Senate passed the bill criminalizing the Armenian Genocide denial with 127 votes for and 86 against. To be signed into law within 14 days, the bill will impose a 45,000 euro fine and a year in prison for anyone in France who denies this crime against humanity committed by the Ottoman Empire.