Foreign Minister Steinmeier on the earthquake in Italy

Foreign Minister Steinmeier issued the following statement this morning (24 August) on the earthquake which struck Italy in the early hours of this morning:

“I was deeply shocked to hear the news of the earthquake in Italy early this morning. It appears that many people have lost their lives or been injured.

At this time of grief and solidarity, we stand united with our Italian friends and partners.

I am certain that the Italian authorities will do everything in their power to help the victims. If desired, we are of course willing to provide assistance.”

Background information:

In the early hours of 24 August 2016, an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale hit the area south of the small town of Norcia where the regions Lazio, Marche and Umbria meet. The towns of Accumoli and Amatrice were the worst affected. According to early reports, people have been killed, injured or buried by rubble.

The Italian authorities have set up a nationwide emergency helpline: +39 800 840 840.

The German Embassy in Rome and the Crisis Response Centre at the Federal Foreign Office have set up a crisis unit. You can also keep informed about the situation by referring to the travel and security advice issued by the Federal Foreign Office.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2016/160824_BM_Erdbeben.html?nn=479796