REHN WARNS OF DANGERS OF PASSING ARMENIAN BILL
The New Anatolian
Oct 10 2006
European Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn warned on Monday of
the dangers of the French Parliament passing a bill on the so-called
Armenian genocide, calling on France to act responsibly and seriously.
Speaking to reporters, Rehn said, "I’m calling on French deputies to
consider the consequences of approval of the bill. Our aim is to solve
the problem through serious debate. I believe French parliamentarians
will act responsibly."
Rehn stated that the bill in question is the problem of France and
French parliamentarians, warning that its possible approval would
also have major consequences in Turkish-European Union relations and
stressing that such a move would damage Ankara’s dialogue with the
Union instead of enhancing it.
Rehn also underlined that French Parliament’s approval of the bill,
that introduces fines and prison terms to those who question the
Armenian genocide claims, would block debates on the controversial
issue and hamper Turkish efforts to abolish obstacles to freedom
of expression.
Touching on his latest contacts in Ankara, the enlargement chief
also said, "Turks think that France, urging Turkey to take steps in
freedom of expression, is itself taking a step to limit that freedom."
"I’m in favor of an open dialogue with Turkey," Rehn added.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
