TFUS01: CONDOLENCE LETTER FROM PRESIDENT CIAMPI

UNCLAS ROME 002929 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL ECON AEMR US IT SUBJECT: TFUS01: CONDOLENCE LETTER FROM PRESIDENT CIAMPI Ambassador Spogli has received, from Antonio Puri Purini, Diplomatic Advisor to President Ciampi, a letter conveying the following message from President Ciampi to President Bush. Begin unofficial Embassy translation: Mr. President, For several days, I have followed with apprehension and sympathy the developments of the terrible hurricane that hit the southern coast of the United States. We grieve over the loss of many human lives, the suffering of the population, and the serious material damage in areas of the United States renowned for their beauty and for the creativity of the people there. The distressing images of devastation transmitted by the media have also revealed, Mr. President, the composure and the dignity with which Americans have confronted, in such a collaborative manner between citizens and the authorities, this natural catastrophe, one of the most serious to have hit their region. Please accept sentiments of solidarity of the Italian people, together with wishes for a quick recovery for the cities and people affected. Carlo Azeglio Ciampi End Embassy translation. SPOGLI NNNN 2005ROME02929 - Classification: UNCLASSIFIED