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06.10.2009 12:08
 Almost all preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying second-leg match between Turkey and Armenia scheduled for Oct. 14 are in their final phase, Today’s Zaman reports.
The necessary security measures have been taken to prevent incidents that could possibly erupt during the match. Unfurling anything other than national flags or banners won't be allowed in the stadium. Any incidents of hooliganism will not be tolerated and offenders will be removed from the stadium. It is yet unknown if Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan will attend the match.
Speaking to the private Cihan news agency, Bursa Governor Şahabettin Harput said this match is important for the prestige of the city. “We will be the center of attention, a big number of journalists and media representatives will be closely following the match. I assess the match as a turning point in terms of relations between the two countries,” Harput noted.
Governor Harput also stated that they have made a tremendous effort to prevent provocative slogans during the match. Harput said they have talked to various civil society organizations and fans' associations to avoid any possible problems during play.
Head of Bursaspor Fans' Association Mesut Ağrak believes that the match is important in terms of Turkey's image. “We will peacefully support our team throughout the match. I believe Bursa will pass this ‘hospitality exam.' We will obey the rule that no any other banners or flags except the Turkish flag will be unfurled in the stadium,” Ağrak said to Cihan. The leaders of the famous Bursaspor fan group “Texas” also confirm that they are ready to host both the Armenian national team and Armenian fans in the best way they can, they said speaking to Devrim Sevimay from Milliyet daily. “We are not racist or fascist. Come to Bursa and experience our hospitality,” said Selim Kurtulan, a leader of the Texas fan group.
In addition, the mayor of Bursa, Recep Altepe, told Cihan that the match is a “vehicle” to normalize relations between two countries. “We may develop our relations and build friendships through this match,” Altepe claimed.
The Turkish and Armenian national teams will meet on Oct. 14 at Bursa Atatürk Stadium.
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