The world famous French-Armenian chanson singer Charles Aznavour is determined to visit Yrevan on April 24 to attend the Armenian Genocide Centennial events.
In an interview with "Pozner" TV program, the maestro said: "One cannot ignore what happened 100 years ago. It is time for Turkey to tell the truth." Aznavour thinks there are two reasons why Turks deny the Genocide: "They fail to accept it as a fact, as dignity is of great importance for them, and it is understandable. But there is another thing too: people have enriched themselves on what belonged to Armenians."
Nevertheless, Aznavour said, he feels no hatred towards Turks as his mother - who lost her family during the Genocide - was used to say: "Among Turks there are good people too."
The maestro highly appreciated Pope Francis's statement calling the Genocide of Armenians one of the most terrible crimes against humanity of the 20th century. "Pope Francis belongs to the people who tell the truth and support the truth despite anything, without fear and beyond reproach," Aznavour said.
To note, France, Russia, Cyprus, and Serbia have confirmed their participation in the events. Joseph Daul, Chairman of the European People's Party, Anne Brasseur, PACE President, and CoE Secretary General Thorbjorn Jagland are also expected to visit Armenia on April 24. Czech Ambassador Petr Mikyska said that one of the Parliament's Vice-Speakers would visit Armenia in April. Switzerland, that has both recognized and adopted a law that criminalizes the negation of the Armenian Genocide, will show its participation thorugh the Swiss Ambassador to Armenia. British MP John Whittingdale and bishop Richard Chartres are to represent London at the events. Meanwhile, Turkey is set to celebrate the Centennial of the Gallipoli victory on April 24. Ankara has invited the world leaders to the event. Leaders of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, as well as Prince Charles and Prince Harry have already confirmed their participation in the "Gallipoli event". Australia and Norway have staked out their refusal to take part in the events.