Italy, a country which has quite often been struck by earthquakes and other natural disasters and as a result suffered heavy loss of life, property and damages to its cultural heritages, can well understand and feel the devastation and affliction that the recent earthquake has caused in Pakistan and extends its complete solidarity with the people of Pakistan and its government over the tragedy that has befallen.
Italian President Carlo Azeglio CIAMPI and Italian Minister Gianfranco FINI have sent messages of deep and heartfelt condolences to their counterparts in Pakistan.
This expression of solidarity in the hour of national calamity and mourning also assumes concrete dimensions as far as the Government of Italy is sending materials of emergency assistance such as tents, medicines, medical and paramedical staff, relief camp hospital with necessary equipment for first-aid and surgery, in addition to the support of civil defence personnel. Special flights carrying relief goods and personnel will reach Islamabad anytime during the next 12 hours.-PR