Erdogan offers condolences to Italy's Berlusconi over earthquake

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday offered his condolences to his Italian counterpart Silvio Berlusconi for a devastating earthquake in the city of L'Aquila on Monday which killed 260 people and left thousands homeless. Telephoning Berlusconi, Erdogan said he hoped people injured in the quake would recover quickly, adding that the Turkish Red Crescent (Kizilay) stands ready to help if assistance is needed. In related news, during a joint press conference after their meeting on Monday, both President Abdullah Gul and US President Barack Obama expressed their condolences to the Italian people. Gul said Turkey shares the sorrow of the Italian people, while Obama stressed his hope that speedy rescue efforts could minimize casualties. Parliament Speaker Koksal Toptan also sent a message of condolences to Italian Senate President Renato Schifano and Gianfranco Fini, the chairman of the Italian Parliament's House of Representatives.